Resurrection, shot with extravagant beauty by Dong Jingsong, makes more sense on first viewing than the director perhaps allows. Each story is whole in itself. But it has the quality of a gorgeous knot that will never fully be untied.

Bi Gan’s vivid storytelling moves through the astral planes in Resurrection, reincarnating a rebel dreamer (Jackson Yee) across 100 years of Chinese history, experienced as six chapters each in a different cinematic style.

Its intricately-wrought plot strands seem to fall apart as you try to grasp them, like snowflakes melting on hot skin. There are connections and resonances, sure, but it doesn't feel as though the Deliriant's dreams are ultimately intended to make sense.

It is easy to get lost in Resurrection’s swarming falsities, especially on first viewing. Its menagerie of styles, stories, symbols, references, and effects seems intentionally overwhelming—a rapturous, frustrating, exhausting experience.