Depois do Universo
Beyond the Universe - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
The Piano
The piano symbolizes Nina's dreams, her passion, and her life force. When she is unable to play, her hope wanes. When Gabriel finds her a piano to practice on, it represents a renewal of her spirit and a tangible path back to her aspirations.
The piano is a recurring element, from her performances and auditions to the old, dusty piano Gabriel finds for her. Her final performance with the orchestra is the culmination of this symbolic journey, representing her triumph over adversity.
Universe Point Mountain
This location represents a place of peace, memory, and transcendence. It was a special place for Gabriel and his late mother. For Nina, it comes to symbolize her promise to Gabriel and the idea that their love continues 'beyond the universe.'
Gabriel promises to take Nina to Universe Point mountain once she recovers. After his sudden death, Nina travels there alone in the final scene, fulfilling the promise and finding a sense of spiritual connection with him, feeling his presence even in his absence.
The Stars and Universe Imagery
The recurring visual motifs of stars, clouds, and cosmic colors represent the film's title and central idea: that some connections, particularly Nina and Gabriel's love, are vast, profound, and not bound by earthly limitations. It symbolizes a love that transcends life and death.
The film opens with Nina musing about love amidst pink and blue hues and stars. The title itself, "Beyond the Universe," is invoked by Nina at the end, as she dedicates a song to Gabriel, believing he is watching over her.
Philosophical Questions
Does the value of a life depend on its length or its depth?
The film explores this question through Nina's journey. Faced with a potentially short life, she initially gives up on her dreams. Gabriel's love and tragic death teach her that a life, no matter how brief, can be profound and impactful. Her decision to pursue her dream and live fully, even after losing him, suggests the film's answer: the richness of experience and the love shared are what give life its ultimate meaning, not its duration.
Can love truly conquer all obstacles, even death?
"Beyond the Universe" presents a romanticized view where love is the primary catalyst for overcoming immense challenges. It gives Nina the strength to fight her illness and pursue her ambitions. After Gabriel's death, his love continues to motivate her, culminating in her successful performance and the kidney donation from his father. The film suggests that while love cannot conquer death physically, its influence, memory, and legacy can transcend it, shaping the lives of those left behind in a powerful and positive way.
Core Meaning
The central message of "Beyond the Universe" is about embracing life and finding hope and love even in the face of immense adversity and mortality. Director Diego Freitas explores the idea that life's value is not measured by its length but by its depth and the connections we make. The film posits that love can be a powerful motivating force, capable of pushing individuals to pursue their dreams against all odds. It is a story about learning to appreciate the small moments and never giving up on one's passions, suggesting that love and memory can transcend physical existence.