Watch Arabian Nights: Volume 1

Arabian Nights: Volume 1 is a 2015 Portuguese film directed by Miguel Gomes. The film is part of a trilogy, and Volume 1 kicks off with a prelude that sets the context for the upcoming tales. The film is not a straightforward narrative, but rather a series of fragmented stories woven together to create an exotic tapestry. As the title suggests, the film draws its inspiration from the ancient tales of the Middle East, richly illustrated in One Thousand and One Nights. However, Arabian Nights: Volume 1 veers away from the traditional narrative structure of those tales, opting for a more whimsical and surreal approach.

The film's narrative is framed by two interlinked plots. The first is set in the present day and revolves around a Portuguese magistrate tasked with enforcing austerity measures in Portugal during the economic crisis. The magistrate is portrayed by Crista Alfaiate, who brings a wonderful blend of vulnerability and strength to her character. Her subplot weaves in and out of the various tales seamlessly, offering a modern perspective on the timeless parables.

The second plotline is set in a mythical kingdom where a tyrannical king decides to marry a new woman every night and execute her the next morning. It is a familiar story from One Thousand and One Nights, but restyled here in Gomes' irreverent style. The part of the king is played by Miguel Gomes himself, imbuing the character with an absurdity that undercuts the seriousness of the king’s actions.

The tales themselves are a whimsical mix of myths, legends, and everyday happenings. They are populated by a diverse range of characters, including dogs that become senators, a talking rooster that screws with time, and a group of old ladies who commit acts of revenge with a chainsaw.

Despite its sometimes surreal tone, the film tackles some real-world issues with sensitivity and biting humor. It is all too easy to see Portugal's austerity measures in the frame of the magistrate's subplot, for instance. Similarly, Gomes' decision to set the king's tale in a mythical world underscores the idea of fantastical political power that is both fascinating and terrifying.

Arabian Nights: Volume 1's visual style is just as eclectic as its story. The film is shot in a mixture of digital and celluloid, with striking visual effects peppered throughout. The cinematography is an absolute feast for the eyes and captures the beauty of Portugal's landscapes with all their vibrancy and color.

The film's score is another standout feature, incorporating a range of musical styles from the Middle East and Portugal alike. The film's use of music is playful and inventive, with traditional instruments often blended with modern beats to create an otherworldly sound.

In conclusion, Arabian Nights: Volume 1 is a mesmerizing piece of cinema that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. It takes the timeless tales of One Thousand and One Nights and remixes them for the modern era, offering a quirky, thought-provoking look at the world we live in. The film's eclectic visual style and inventive use of music make it a treat for the senses, while the witty and insightful writing keeps the viewer engaged from start to finish.

Arabian Nights: Volume 1 is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 5 minutes.