Release Year: 2000
Average Rating:
Last Reviewed On: December 30, 2002 (by Scott)
Scott's Review:
on April 8, 2001This was an excellent movie. It was told in a very unique fashion, the plot was told backwards. Unlike other movies that have tried this, however, there's a very good reason. It really puts you into the main character's point of view.
Warning: Mild spoilers ahead.
The main character in this movie has suffered brain damage, and as a result, can no longer create new memories, so he can't remember what happened a few minutes ago. His only "memory" is what he writes done as notes, and the pictures he takes.
Because the story is told backwards, you remember what he does of the previous scene, nothing. For instance, you know he's being chased, but you haven't a clue why. And as you piece the puzzle together, what is probably a straight forward plot, has you scratching your head, and wanting to watch the movie again to catch what you missed.
I'm really hoping the DVD release of this movie has some sort of mode to play it back chronologically; it would be fascinating to see all the pieces I've undoubtedly missed.
Scott's Review:
on December 30, 2002Well, over a year later, and a DVD is available that can play the movie back chronologically. Aside from one of the worst DVD interfaces ever forced upon us, this is a very interesting way to watch to movie.
It's a bit like watching a mystery movie with little pop-up bubbles to explain where all the clues are, so I wouldn't recommend it unless you've watched the movie normally a few times. That said, it was fascinating to see it this way, and it managed to piece together a few elements of the movie that I hadn't figured out myself. If anything, it increased the replay value for me because I can now watch the movie again and have a much better clue what's going on.
-- Scott and Michelle