Three Thousand Years of Longing.


It was Tilda Swnton that drew me as she has many times before to the various intriguing projects that she has been involved in in her acting career, to this mystical tale.  As Alithea Binnie a narratologist (someone who studies narrative structure and its influence on society). who discovers a strange bottle while doing research in Istanbul. While cleaning the bottle, Alithea comes to find out that it contains a Djinn, a mystical spirit engrossingly played by (Idris Elba).  Accidentally releasing it in the middle of her hotel room. The Djinn grants three wishes to Alithea, insisting that he is under the control of whomever frees him until they make their wishes. While Alithea is hesitant, acknowledging that many Djinn stories are cautionary tales, the Djinn attempts to convince Alithea that he will truly grant whatever her heart desires by telling her stories of how he was imprisoned three different times. Directed by George Miller of the Mad Max Franchise and The Witches of Eastwick among others.   Based on a A. S. Byatt's short story.  Even in this lushly produced fantastical tale of magic, illusion and dreams. Along with the fine supporting cast, it is Swinton’s presence and acting skills as with all of her appearances holds your attention. I stayed up much longer than intended to see the romantic end of this engrossing film.