From Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey” to “Spaceman,” directed by Johan Renck, the film industry has evolved to explore complex narratives that delve into the human condition in the universe. Pavlo Ostrikov’s film “U Are the Universe” is also weaving the universe’s vastness with the human existential quest by reflecting his solitude and connection in the heart of the cosmos surrounding him. The film follows Andruka, a man burdened with the grim responsibility of transporting nuclear waste to Callisto, Jupiter’s moon, aboard the spaceship Obriy. As Andruka grapples with the enormity of his task, his journey reveals a multitude of layers that make “U Are the Universe” a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
The phenomenal Volodymyr Kravchuk portrays Andriy, or Andruka, a space trucker who works for the largest nuclear waste disposal corporation in Eastern Europe in the far future. He is an ordinary guy from Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine. In the last 150 years, humans have produced almost 3 billion tons of radioactive waste, which is now stored in temporary facilities. The unfortunate reality is that radiation is wiping out all forms of life on Earth as a result of the rising frequency of earthquakes. Maxim, a robot, accompanies him on his journey to Jupiter’s Moon, Callisto, adding to the film’s unique dynamic. Maxim serves not only as a companion, but also as a representation of technology’s role in human life, offering both support and companionship. However, a machine cannot replicate the true complexities of human emotions, highlighting the limitations of artificial intelligence. Irony often permeates their interactions; while Andruka yearns for genuine connection, Maxim’s responses frequently fail to provide the emotional nourishment he longs for.
The film takes an unsettling turn during Andruka’s journey when he learns of an explosion on Earth, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative. The heartbreaking news solidifies his status as possibly the last human in the cosmos, escalating feelings of despair and abandonment. Ostrikov does a magnificent job capturing Andruka’s internal struggle as he grapples with the enormity of his situation. Simultaneously, the juxtaposition of his isolation with the bittersweet melodies of “Golden Opera” and songs from the Soviet classic singer “Mykola Hnatyuk” creates a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to his existential crisis. The musical selections are a testament to the film’s ability to evoke emotion through sound, as they amplify the feelings of nostalgia, longing, and loss. Here the regrets emerge and remind us of Andrei Tarkovsky’s masterpiece “Solaris.” But the solitude in the middle of a science fiction narrative turns into something profoundly humane and multilayer when Andruka receives messages from Catherine, a French astronaut around Saturn.
The poignancy of their dialogues in the midst of chaos resonates deeply with the audience, reminding us that even in the most desperate situations, the human spirit remains resilient. Their interaction also underlines the powerful theme of hope—hope that the universe still contains life beyond its immediate reality, hope that connection can thrive despite isolation, and hope that humanity, exhibiting infinite forms, can endure. In the very specific moments when Andruka plays the famous French song “Voyage Voyage,” Volodymyr Kravchuk, with his brilliant, exceptional performance, portrays something extraordinary in his tearing eyes: it is human agony and his humiliation in contrast with the hugeness around him during the centuries of evolution.
In the ethereal realm of “U Are the Universe,” philosophical undercurrents run deep, urging viewers to ponder the essence of human existence within the cosmic tapestry. Andruka’s sombre quest, symbolic of humanity’s relentless pursuit of purpose amidst adversity, propels audiences into a contemplative journey. The boundless expanse of the universe looms large, both daunting and sublime, prompting soul-searching enquiries into humanity’s role in the grand scheme of creation. The cataclysmic eruption on Earth serves as a stark testament to mortality’s shadow and the delicate thread of life, compelling viewers to grapple with the profound questions of vitality and interpersonal connections, beckoning them to seize the moment before it slips away into the obscurity of eternity.
However, we have seen films about humans in space and their limits as scientific phenomena, but mixing the cosmic scenes with the undeniable authority of music to show the symphonic view of the universe on the screen of theatre is beyond a normal cinematic experience, and Pavlo Ostrikov, beside Nikita Kuzmenko, the director of photography, Mykyta Moiseive, the composer, and Sergiy Stepansky, the sound supervisor, makes it possible.
Pavlo Ostrikov’s debut feature, written and filmed during Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, serves as a timely reminder of the importance of human connection and wholeness, as well as the unity we need to protect our species in the midst of chaotic wars around the globe. From September 5 to September 15, 2024, Toronto, Canada, will host the Toronto Film Festival (TIFF), featuring the world premiere of “U Are The Universe” by Ukraine and Belgium in the Discovery program.
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