In the heart of South African cinema emerges an evocative narrative that challenges the very core of human desires and choices. Henk Pretorius, a renowned director from the African continent, paints a gripping story in his latest offering, “Forever Young“. This science-fiction romance is an enchanting blend of transhumanist concepts and the age-old quest for eternal youth.
Robyn and Oscar Smith, portrayed by the brilliant Diana Quick and Bernard Hill, lead quiet, contented lives, basking in the twilight years of their marriage. But serenity is disrupted when a revolutionary opportunity is placed before them. Enter the genius scientist Jim Petrak, played by Mark Jackson. He unveils a groundbreaking drug with the power to reverse the course of time, physically turning back the clock on human aging.
The allure of reliving life beckons Robyn Smith. Taking the plunge, she undergoes a metamorphosis, emerging as her youthful self, played by the talented Amy Tyger. This choice is driven by a deep-rooted desire – to experience the joys of motherhood she missed in her previous journey through life. But, as in all tales of passion and dilemma, there’s a twist. Oscar, content with the life he’s lived, declines the miraculous pill. It raises a poignant question: when given the chance, would one choose a do-over? Lise Romanoff, a key player from Vision Films, poignantly remarks, “What if you could live forever, younger, would you? This poignant film will really make audiences think, and the renowned international cast delivers world-class performances.”
Who Are the Luminaries Behind “Forever Young”?
Delving deeper into the canvas of “Forever Young“, one is met with a constellation of stars. Diana Quick, a British gem, shone brilliantly in the iconic 1981 ITV adaptation of ‘Brideshead Revisited’. Bernard Hill, a name synonymous with cinematic brilliance, graced screens as King Théoden in the epic “Lord of the Rings”, Captain Edward Smith in the haunting “Titanic”, and also played the influential Duke of Norfolk in “Wolf Hall”.
Then there’s Mark Jackson, popularly recognized from “The Orville”. Julian Glover, portraying an elder version, isn’t a stranger to avid movie enthusiasts, given his impactful roles in blockbusters like “The Empire Strikes Back”, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, and the sensation “Game of Thrones”. Amy Tyger, who steals scenes as Azura in Apple’s “Foundation”, is yet another name to look out for. The ensemble is beautifully rounded off by Stephanie Beacham, portraying Robyn’s confidante, and Anna Wolf, playing the role of the Smiths’ daughter.
A Closing Note on “Forever Young”
As we anticipate the film’s release, the questions it poses linger in the air. “Forever Young” isn’t merely a cinematic experience; it’s a journey through the labyrinth of choices, regrets, and desires. Through the magic of film, Pretorius invites us to ponder: If handed the elixir of youth, would we drink? And at what cost?
