In "Pacifiction," the breathtaking landscapes of French Polynesia serve as the
backdrop for a film that explores the concept of fiction as a form of escapism.
The story follows the French government's High Commissioner, who becomes
increasingly paranoid after being exposed to elliptic conversations and hearsay.
As he seeks the truth, the limits of knowability are tested, and the film
leaves it up to the viewer to decide what is real and what is not. The cryptic
love interest/partner in crime/spy adds an element of candid intimacy and power
games to the film, making for fascinating and awkwardly stilted moments.
Director Albert Serra's approach to creating a sensual film involves
distanciation, exhaustion, and overstimulation. The film's blushing skies and
stunning landscapes are juxtaposed against the suggestion of nefarious
activities, leaving the viewer to question the possibilities of fiction. |