High Life (HBO)

About High Life (HBO)

High Life is a science fiction horror film that was released in 2018 by HBO. Directed by Claire Denis, the movie tells the story of a group of convicts who are sent on a mysterious mission to a black hole. Along the way, there are many twists and turns that uncover the truth about their mission and their own personal histories. The film delicately handles themes of humanity, survival, and the frightening depths of the unknown.

Making / Production

The script of High Life was written by Claire Denis and her longtime collaborator Jean-Pol Fargeau. The movie was intensely atmospheric due to the cinematography of Yorick Le Saux and Tomasz Naumiuk. It was shot in Germany, Poland, and aboard a spacecraft set, marking Denis' first English language film. The production design, led by François-Renaud Labarthe, created a haunting and isolated vibe for the spaceship.

Actors

• Robert Pattinson as Monte: Played a convict who is trying to raise his daughter in space. Pattinson seamlessly portrayed the struggle and angst of his character.
• Juliette Binoche as Dr. Dibs: As the ship's doctor, Binoche offered a spellbinding performance showcasing the character's obsession with creation and life.
• André Benjamin as Tcherny: Benjamin's portrayal of Tcherny gracefully explored a deep connection with earth and its lost greenery.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was initially envisioned in 2002 as a narrative about a "sexual murderer" in a space setting.
• This film marks the English-language debut of French director Claire Denis.
• The original title for High Life was slowed down, referring to the concept of time dilation in space.

Music, Soundtrack

• The ethereal and haunting score for High Life was composed by Stuart A. Staples of the band Tindersticks.
• "The Garden" is a notable track that played during the movie's most pivotal scenes.
• The soundtrack effectively amplifies the movie's gripping and unsettling mood.

Quotes

• "Break the laws of nature, you'll pay for it."
• "This mission can't turn our shame into some type of glory. I won’t do that."
• "The sensation, moving backwards. Even though we're moving forwards. Getting further from what’s getting nearer."