Exploring Time Perception in ‘Arrival’: Louise Banks’ Visions and Decision-Making

When Louise Banks contemplates her daughter in the film Arrival, her memories are not strictly flashbacks. Instead, they are glimpses into the future, revealing the film's core exploration of the nature of time and its impact on human perception.

Nonlinear Perception of Time

The movie Arrival delves into the concept of nonlinear time, which is heavily influenced by the alien language, Heptapod B. As Louise learns this language, her perception of time changes. She begins to experience visions of her daughter’s life, including both happy moments and tragic events. This unusual experience challenges the traditional linear understanding of time.

The Nature of Time in Arrival

At the start of the film, we assume that the scenes with the daughter are flashbacks. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the way time is experienced is not linear. To the Heptapods, the concept of before and after is meaningless. This raises the question of whether Louise's perceptions of the future are merely a form of communication with or through the alien language, or if they are actual glimpses of what will happen.

Character Psychology and Decision-Making

The film poses a profound question: what if we knew what was around the corner? Would we behave the same way? In a nonlinear timeline, cause and effect become blurred, making outcomes indeterminate. Louise’s decision to embrace this ambiguity and her husband's inability to do so define their respective paths and the tragedy that unfolds.

Philosophical Insights and Scientific Concepts

The film's concept is reminiscent of the Principle of Least Action, a real scientific concept from physics. This principle suggests that all movements in the universe tend to follow the path of least possible energy. Drawing an insightful parallel between this and the nature of connection loss and grief, the film explores the idea of accepting the inevitable in a holistic way.

Implications for Narrative and Audience

Alex Garland, the writer and director, does not intend for the film to conform to traditional time-travel tropes. Instead, the core of the film lies in the exploration of these philosophical and scientific concepts. The film raises questions about human nature, acceptance, and the interconnectedness of all events. It challenges us to reconsider how we perceive and act based on the knowledge of what is to come.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Arrival is not just a narrative about linguistic and extraterrestrial encounters but a profound exploration of time, identity, and decision-making. The way Louise perceives and interacts with her daughter's future can be seen as a metaphor for how we approach the uncertainties of life. By embracing the complexities of nonlinear time, the film offers a new perspective on our relationship with the inevitable.