“The Empire(L’Empire)”: A Whimsical Sci-Fi Quest
Descends on Berlinale

Bruno Dumont’s latest cinematic venture, “The Empire,” brings an interstellar war to a serene fishing village in northern France, introducing audiences at the Berlin Film Festival to a galaxy-spanning battle for humanity’s destiny. Competing for the prestigious Golden Bear prize, this film blends the surreal with the sci-fi, crafting a narrative that is as engaging as it is eccentric.

In an intriguing twist on the classic space opera, “The Empire” pits two factions of extraterrestrials against each other, both descending from the heavens in human guise. The heart of this conflict is the struggle between benevolent beings, led by the Romanian-French Anamaria Vartolomei, and their malevolent counterparts, steered by the fresh talent of Brandon Vlieghe. The battleground? None other than Earth itself.

The visual spectacle is unmatched, featuring the bad aliens emerging from a floating palace reminiscent of neoclassical architecture, set against the backdrop of Bach’s harmonies. Meanwhile, the good side makes its stand from a gothic spacecraft, echoing Paris’ iconic Sainte Chapelle, weaving through the cosmos. Dumont, embracing the spirit of space operas, seeks to tackle profound questions about existence and time, yet firmly grounds his narrative in a familiar terrestrial tableau.

The story takes an unexpected turn when these otherworldly visitors clash on Earth, discovering the complexities of human vulnerability and the unpredictable nature of love. The transformation of Vartolomei’s character, Jane, from a combative hero to a figure tortured by affection, underscores the film’s exploration of the depths of the human (and extraterrestrial) condition.

“The Empire” stands as a testament to Dumont’s imaginative prowess, daring to venture where few films go. With a cast including Fabrice Luchini and Camille Cottin, it weaves together stunning landscapes, cosmic battles, and moments of levity, all while pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Despite its departure into the realm of the fantastical, Dumont’s film remains a visually stunning, thought-provoking piece, sure to resonate with those who appreciate cinema that dares to dream.