Darren Aronofsky, the director of “Pi” and “Requiem for a Dream,” spent the better half of the last decade trying to turn his concept for a science fiction love story into reality.

After nearly six years, $50 million and a new pair of lead actors (the film was originally slated to star Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett) have all come together in “The Fountain.”

“The Fountain” intertwines the stories of a 16th century conquistador, a 21st century doctor and a 26th century cosmonaut (all played by Hugh Jackman). Each of these stories revolve around Jackman’s character embarking on a mission to save the love of his life (always played by Rachel Weisz).

Much of the joy of the film comes from unraveling the layers of the stories and discovering how they’re related.

The plot jumps through time and space, constantly shifting perspectives. Transitions between the stories, although sometimes abrupt, never leave the audience baffled. At one point, a tree branch from 500 years in the future seamlessly transforms into a woman’s arm during the present day. Shots like this linger on in the mind of the viewer long after the house lights come on.

One of the most striking aspects of “The Fountain” is just how absolutely gorgeous it is. At countless moments throughout the film, frames beg to be ripped from the celluloid and hung on a museum wall. It quickly becomes evident that Aronofsky uses the camera as an extension of his mind in ways that few directors are able to achieve. I could rattle off dozens of synonyms for the word “beautiful,” but it would be better for you to experience it for yourselves.

In a movie like this, which deals with excepting the inevitability of death, success hinges on the believability of its actors. The audience has to feel that these characters are truly in love in order to allow themselves to become emotionally attached to them.

Thankfully, Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz each deliver the performances of their careers. Each actor plays their own set of characters with unadulterated passion and depth. The love they express towards one another feels as genuine as any couple outside of film.

So many other elements help craft this film into one of the finest of 2006. Longtime Aronofsky collaborator Clint Mansell composes a score that compliments the mysteriously haunting depths of the film.

The outstanding visual effects also help distinguish this piece of art as one of a kind. Images of Jackman’s cosmonaut hurtling through the vastness of space are unlike anything I’ve ever seen outside of a dream.

“The Fountain” is a film that will most likely polarize audiences. It requires concentration and thinking, two commodities severely lacking in theaters nowadays.

Those wanting a story wrapped up neatly with a bow should stay clear. However, those brave souls who allow “The Fountain” to wash over them will experience a film that will be dissected, discussed and marveled at for years to come.

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