Bi Gan's "Resurrection": A Cinematic Odyssey Through Dreams and Memory

"Resurrection," directed by Chinese filmmaker Bi Gan, is a groundbreaking film that intertwines a love story with a dystopian narrative. Set in a neon-lit port town on New Year’s Eve, 1999, the plot follows a hoodlum named Apollo, who falls for a singer named Tai Zhaomei. Their journey through the chaotic streets involves encounters with mobsters, biker gangs, and even vampires, culminating in a quest to escape by stealing a ship. The film is notable for its ambitious structure, comprising five chapters that explore various sensory experiences, all captured in a single, 40-minute unbroken shot.

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

Bi Gan's approach to filmmaking is characterized by his use of long takes and intricate visual storytelling. "Resurrection" features a climactic setting in Chongqing, chosen for its labyrinthine alleys and proximity to a railway and harbor. The production faced numerous challenges, including nighttime shooting and the need for elaborate setups to create rain effects. Bi Gan emphasized the complexity of coordinating a minimal crew while executing the film's ambitious vision, stating, “In every single move, there were at least ten people following, doing set-up and planning.”

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

The film's narrative is rich with references to a century of cinema, drawing from styles such as silent film, film noir, and German Expressionism. Each chapter presents a different character and sensory theme, culminating in a poignant exploration of dreams and the human condition. Bi Gan's innovative techniques, such as blending real and painted elements, create a unique visual experience that challenges viewers' perceptions of reality.

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

"Resurrection" premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Jury Special Prize and received acclaim for its artistic ambition. Critics have described it as a "marvelously maximalist movie" that serves as an elegy for the dream of 20th-century cinema. Jessica Kiang of Variety noted the film's paradoxical nature, stating, “It is, of course, a paradox to make a film that requires of the viewer the exact spirit of guileless abandon whose disappearance it is built to mourn.”

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The film's release in China was met with commercial success despite its unconventional style, and it is set to debut on the Criterion Channel on March 24, 2026, followed by a home-video release on April 21, 2026.

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

While "Resurrection" has garnered significant praise, some critics argue that its complex narrative and artistic choices may alienate mainstream audiences. The film's anti-commercial presentation contrasts sharply with the current trend of franchise-driven cinema, raising questions about its accessibility and appeal to a broader viewer base.

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• “The audience sees this very beautiful passage,” — Bi Gan, Director

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

• “ “You see this archetype in a lot of literature – a monster that might be ugly on the outside, but soft on the inside, and compassionate.” — Bi Gan, Director

The story behind Resurrection, Bi Gan’s dreamy cinematic epic

• “My movie is like a heavy rain, but there’s no need to bring umbrellas.” — Bi Gan, Director

Resurrection and the Archive of Uncertainty

In summary, "Resurrection" stands as a testament to Bi Gan's innovative vision and dedication to the art of filmmaking, inviting audiences to reflect on the nature of dreams and the cinematic experience.

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