"Empyrean," directed by Thomas Robert Lee, presents a unique and introspective narrative that captures the deep psychic transformation of its protagonist, William Fischer. This transformation begins following a near-death experience on the eve of his 30th birthday, leading William into a profound psychic awakening. This change deeply impacts his understanding of reality, affecting his relationships and his overall connection to the world.
The film's cinematography, led by Bradley Stuckel, plays a critical role in translating the movie's introspective qualities to the screen. Shot in black and white using the first Monochrome Dragon released in Canada by Red Digital Cinema, "Empyrean" offers a distinct visual style. This approach not only complements the film's exploration of themes like time, space, and memory but also contributes to creating an immersive sensory experience reminiscent of contemplative science fiction and drama films such as "Upstream Color" and "Solaris."
The narrative of "Empyrean" is deeply meditative, focusing not just on the immediate storyline but also on broader, more abstract concepts. Key aspects of the film include the deterioration of William's marriage and his inclination towards nature, indicative of his growing disconnection from the conventional world post his psychic awakening.
"Empyrean" is notable for its atmospheric and emotion-driven storytelling approach. The film prioritizes mood and emotional resonance over conventional narrative structures, making it a standout example of creative filmmaking. The combination of Thomas Robert Lee's directional vision and Bradley Stuckel's innovative cinematographic techniques results in a movie that is both haunting and introspective, offering a profound meditation on existential themes.