Ararat 2002

A cinematic tapestry woven from the threads of history, art, and legacy, Ararat presents a nuanced exploration of the interplay between creative expression and the weight of collective trauma. At its core, the film is a poignant testament to the enduring power of art to transcend time and human experience, as embodied by the enigmatic figure of Arshile Gorky (Simon Akarian). Though his life was marked by the devastating reported massacre of Armenians in 1915, Gorky’s spirit continues to haunt and inspire those who come after him.

As a cultural icon, Gorky’s story serves as a powerful symbol of the Armenian people’s tragic history. For Ani (Arsinee Khanjian), an art historian with a passion for storytelling, he represents the subject of her latest research, a fascinating chapter in the annals of artistic innovation. Meanwhile, for Celia (Marie-Josee Croze), Gorky’s presence is a bittersweet reminder of her father’s mysterious death and the unresolved questions that continue to haunt her family’s past.

For Raffi (David Alpay), Gorky’s art becomes an essential key to unlocking the secrets of his own identity, as he navigates the complexities of his cultural heritage. As these diverse perspectives converge, the film reveals Atom Egoyan’s masterful hand as a writer and director, deftly weaving together themes of artistic expression, historical trauma, and personal discovery.

In Ararat, Egoyan has crafted a sweeping narrative that not only pays tribute to Gorky’s remarkable legacy but also illuminates the ways in which art can serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting us all in our shared humanity.