Mirror

Main Plot

"Mirror," directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, is a non-linear, autobiographical film that weaves together memories, dreams, and historical events. The narrative is fragmented, reflecting the inner life of the protagonist, who is never named but is understood to be a reflection of Tarkovsky himself. The film explores themes of memory, childhood, and the passage of time, juxtaposing personal recollections with broader historical moments, such as World War II and the Soviet era. Through a series of poetic and visually striking sequences, "Mirror" delves into the protagonist's relationships with his mother, ex-wife, and son, capturing the emotional and psychological complexities of family life. The film's structure defies conventional storytelling, creating a meditative and immersive experience that invites viewers to reflect on their own memories and the nature of existence.

Characters

• Margarita Terekhova plays both the mother, Maria, and the ex-wife, Natalia, reflecting the protagonist's memories and emotional struggles across different timelines.
• Filipp Yankovskiy plays Ignat, the son of the protagonist. His character symbolizes the continuity of family and the passage of time, bridging past and present within the narrative.
• Ignat Daniltsev is a young boy who represents the narrator's son, bridging past and present memories, and symbolizing innocence and continuity in the film's fragmented narrative.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of Andrei Tarkovsky's film "Mirror," the narrative reaches a poignant and introspective closure. The film, known for its non-linear structure and poetic imagery, culminates in a series of reflective moments that blend past and present. The protagonist, Alexei, who is largely absent physically but present through voiceovers and memories, reconciles with his fragmented recollections of his childhood, his mother, and his own experiences. The ending interweaves scenes of Alexei's mother, Maria, in her youth and old age, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and memory. The final sequences show Maria walking through a field with Alexei's children, suggesting a continuity of life and the persistence of familial bonds despite the passage of time. The film closes with a serene and contemplative atmosphere, emphasizing themes of memory, loss, and the enduring impact of personal history. Tarkovsky's use of dreamlike visuals and temporal shifts underscores the introspective and meditative tone of the film's conclusion, leaving viewers with a sense of timeless reflection.