The Garden is an intriguing visual essay in which Derek Jarman explores his personal experiences surrounding the AIDS crisis and his own mortality. This film, devoid of a classical narrative, uses a series of dreamlike images to tackle profound themes. With scenes alternating between the tranquil Kent coast and a garden overshadowed by a nuclear power plant, Jarman weaves a narrative that blends Christian icons with personal and political statements. These images not only comment on the persecution of homosexual people throughout history but also highlight the role of religion in contemporary society. The film gradually becomes a mix of reality and surrealistic tableaux, with the garden serving metaphorically as both Eden and Gethsemane.
Confronted with his HIV diagnosis in 1988, Derek Jarman did not let this deter him and continued making films. He filmed The Garden not alone but with the support of a close-knit group of friends. His unconditional love for gardening and his intense involvement in the Gay Rights movement resonate through his work. Tilda Swinton, in the lead role, brings an extra dimension to this fascinating film, which is simultaneously disturbing, funny, beautiful, and captivating.
The Garden is part of our NEW QUEER CINEMA series, showing in June, July, and August 2024 at De Uitkijk.