The connection with another person can throw us for a loop. So, too, can the lack of that connection. In the new film, The Beast, we see these ideas explored in a unique, twisty way that was inspired by a Henry James novella.

The film comes from writer/director Bertrand Bonello. It is a science fiction film. It’s a film that takes place in multiple time periods. And it draws inspiration from James’ The Beast in the Jungle. But this isn’t a pure adaptation—rather it latches on to the themes and ideas of that story to look at those same ideas through a new lens.

The film begins in 2044. Gabrielle (Lea Seydoux) is plagued by a sense of impending doom. She lives in a time when feeling too rich of emotions is seen as a negative. Through a process of purifying ones DNA—embracing past lives and past connections—those emotions can be put in check. But Gabrielle is on the fence. She wants to move forward, but she doesn’t want to lose the emotions that make her a real, vibrant person.

She meets Louis (George MacKay), and they spark a connection. It seems deeper than a casual meeting. As Gabrielle undergoes the procedure, she’s taken to 1910. There, she connects with Louis. They share a spark. They fall in love. It doesn’t go all according to plan.

Later, she’s transported to her past self in 2014. She encounters Louis again. They share a spark. They make a connection. But things don’t go according to plan. These connections and feelings cause Gabrielle to doubt the process of removing her emotions, leading her to face a difficult and potentially exhilarating decision.

This film has a complex plot that spans three different time frames. We see the same actors playing variations of themselves meeting in different ways throughout time. The same themes—a sense of foreboding dread, connection, and sparks of love—persist in all three time frames. It’s meant to be an exploration of both ideas, as James’ novella was.

This is a unique concept and a unique approach. Visually, I was taken with the worlds built by Bonello. And, often, I was drawn to these characters, too. But some of it works better than others. I was particularly taken by the rich narrative in 1910. And I was really moved by the concluding act. Some of the middle section—in 2014—was harder to follow.

Throughout it all, I was taken with Seydoux. She gives a rich lead performance with some incredible moments and some very expressive moments that help bring the depth of emotion to life. MacKay is strong as well, and particularly in the early time frame they have some great chemistry.

There were moments in the film that really resonated with me. I thought the concept and idea here was also great. Sometimes the execution and the story didn’t hit, but overall, it was a fascinating and compelling journey.

The Beast opens in limited release the next few weeks, including on Friday, April 12 in Denver and on Friday, April 19 in Nashville.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.