While I understand that the complexity of the highly nuanced plot may seem daunting, I would recommend focusing only on the surface level plots on your first viewing, much like Moby Dick can be read as a purely material story about whalers. Then, having possibly spent some time in contemplation, give it a rewatch with the focus on the more subtle aspects of the first few layers of subtext (going back to the previous simile, this would be like when you consider Moby Dick as a story of man vs. Nature, the futile search for control in a chaotic reality etc). Then, having some grasp of these, give it another rewatch while trying to focus on the dimensions of metaphysical philosophy that should now be apparent, that I won't spoil. In the end, all the pieces should fit together nicely and the many meanings' beautiful interconnectivity should be clear.
I was considering removing a star for the overly spectacular visuals, but I suppose that's de rigueur for even the most artistic film-maker these days, so I'll let it slide.