We take another look at Philip Brocklehurst’s short film about the cycle of life, only this time it’s the Alexander Sharoglazov extended version. This is Eternity.
Familiar to our dedicated readers, the question may arise: “Eternity by Philip Brocklehurst? Wasn’t that recently reviewed?” Indeed, our previous examination of this poignant short left us with a favourable impression, resonating with its contemplative exploration of life’s transience. Now, we delve into the extended rendition, colloquially referred to as the “Alexander Sharoglazov Version.” Collaborating with Brocklehurst, Sharoglazov enriches Eternity by employing aging simulation technology, visually manifesting the passage of time from youth to old age for the protagonist.
This extended iteration stretches just beyond the four-minute mark, nearly doubling the duration of its predecessor. Introducing supplementary sequences, notably featuring a flower resting in a serene blue vase, the film juxtaposes the gradual descent of its petals with the unfolding narrative. These interludes are seamlessly woven amidst familiar scenes from the original edit – the poignant portrayal of Brocklehurst’s aging process, the symbolic imagery of sunrise, the cameo appearance by Margie Newton, and the relentless march of time embodied by the revolving hands of a clock. Accompanying these evocative visuals is a fitting musical score, with ethereal choir arrangements lending an air of haunting beauty to the cinematic experience.
As previously affirmed, Eternity emerges as a standout piece within Brocklehurst’s oeuvre, compelling viewers to introspectively contemplate existence and mortality. The meticulous craftsmanship evident in both editing and musical selection contributes to its overall impact. Is the extended version a necessity? Arguably not, yet its merits remain undeniable. Perhaps, had this iteration been our initial encounter, we would have lamented the absence of the poignant flower sequences from the abridged cut.
Nevertheless, Eternity serves as a poignant artistic reflection on the human condition, prompting profound contemplation on the essence of life and its inevitable conclusion. The collaborative synergy between Brocklehurst and Sharoglazov appears promising, hinting at a fruitful creative partnership. For those seeking cinematic experiences that transcend mere entertainment, Eternity stands as a testament to the enduring power of thought-provoking storytelling.
For those interested in revisiting our analysis of the shortened rendition of Eternity, the previous review can be accessed here.
