Ancient magic

Dusting Off the Grimoires: When Ancient Magic Meets Modernity

Okay, so "ancient magic" – it's a huge topic, right? We’re talking about something that taps into our deepest fascination with the unknown, with forces beyond our understanding. It’s not just waving a wand and saying “abracadabra.” True ancient magic, as depicted in film, carries weight, history, and often, a hefty dose of consequence. And increasingly, filmmakers are playing with how that kind of power interacts with the modern world – sometimes hilariously, sometimes terrifyingly.

Think about The Portable Door, for instance. It's a clever little film that uses the corporate satire we’ve all become familiar with (think Office Space meets… well, magic) to explore this very tension. Humphrey and Dennis aren't just eccentric bosses; they're custodians of something ancient, trying to navigate it through the lens of quarterly reports and market share. It’s funny because it's so absurd – imagine a board meeting debating the ethical implications of summoning a minor deity!

But The Portable Door isn’t alone in this exploration. Consider Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth. While ostensibly a dark fairytale, its magic is deeply rooted in ancient folklore and pagan rituals, offering an escape – and a rebellion – against the brutal realities of Francoist Spain. The creatures aren't just whimsical; they are embodiments of primal forces, echoes of forgotten beliefs. It’s a stark contrast to the sterile, modern world of fascism, highlighting the enduring power of myth.

Then there's something like Stardust, which takes a more playful approach. It blends Arthurian legend with fairytale tropes, but the magic itself feels… old. The fallen star isn't just a pretty object; it’s imbued with ancient power and attracts all sorts of magical creatures vying for its essence. It reminds us that even in whimsical stories, these forces can be dangerous if mishandled.

What I find fascinating is how filmmakers are using this juxtaposition – the clash between the timeless and the contemporary – to comment on our own anxieties about progress, tradition, and the loss of something… intangible. Are we losing touch with something vital by prioritizing efficiency and logic? Maybe that’s why these stories resonate so strongly. They offer a glimpse into a world where things aren't always explainable, where there's still room for wonder – and maybe, just maybe, a little bit of magic.

What films come to your mind when you think about ancient magic? I'd love to hear them!