Muhammed Ali Week 13 - My Favorite Christopher Nolan Movie
My Favorite Christopher Nolan Movie
My favorite Christopher Nolan movie is one most people I talk to haven’t heard of. Unlike his many recent box office hits like Oppenheimer and Interstellar, this film came at a time in Nolan’s career where he was still a relatively unknown director. It was his first major film, in fact, and it’s titled Memento.
The movie follows Leonard, a man with severe short-term memory loss who is actively trying to hunt down the man who sexually assaulted and murdered his wife. He’s able to somewhat recall events from before the accident, but is physically unable to remember things around fifteen minutes prior. Because of this, he uses photos, sticky notes, and tattoos to remember where he had left off in his search before he once again forgets everything. This is an extremely unique and interesting premise which is only enhanced by the fact that the film plays backwards in reverse chronological order.
Starring Guy Pearce and Carrie-Anne Moss, the film is very confusing at times, a trademark of all the great Nolan films. It’s definitely not something to just have on as background noise, requiring around two hours of unwavering attention in order to attain its full effect. The film is perhaps lesser known because of its age and because of the far more glamorous Nolan films that have been produced recently that manage to effectively overshadow some of his earlier, grittier works.
At the end of the movie, I was left completely astounded by the incredible twists and turns the movie took, and it truly felt as though I had accomplished something after it was all over because of its extremely complex storytelling styles. It’s a disturbing yet phenomenal movie that explores a very real and under-discussed topic in severe short-term memory loss. I would highly recommend anyone who hasn’t watched it to give the film a try; I almost guarantee you won’t regret it.
Hi Muhammed! The way you described the movie makes it seem really interesting. I enjoy movies like this and this plot especially seems really cool. Memory is such a complex concept, and throughout the history of filmmaking, many have attempted to portray it fully. It seems that no matter how many times films delve into the topic of memory, or lack thereof, it can never be fully unpacked. Nonetheless, I will definitely watch Memento!
ReplyDeleteHey Muhammed! I had never heard of Memento before reading your blog. But, it definitely seems like an enthralling watch. The plot is unique, and I feel like movies with abnormal aspects, are not as common in modern day films. Storylines are getting increasingly redundant, so I am glad to have a movie recommendation that strays away from the typical mystery thriller. For example, the fact that Leonard has "severe short-term memory loss" where he is physically unable to remember important details, creates a whole new level of tensions in the plot, making it extremely difficult for Leonard to accomplish his main motive. I love how your review is not overly positive, and you mention how it is confusing at times, which can be a turn off for certain audiences. You also give reasons as to why it is not a well-known film despite being made by an acclaimed director, which erases questions I had when I initially started reading your review. Overall, your blog did a great job of presenting Memento, and I cannot wait to watch it!
ReplyDeleteHi Muhammad! I’m not much of a movie guy (admittedly, despite all the excitement and “hype” surrounding it, I still have not watches Oppenheimer, nor enjoyed its direct counterpart, Barbie) but the movie that you descried certainly seems very interesting! The loss of memories seems to be a unique form of horror in itself, as compared to facing monsters and ghosts. Such a film concept must have been very challenging to film and direct. For example, perhaps Nolan would need to avoid the movie becoming too repetitive, as it seems like the main character looses and regains his memories multiple times. I will certainly look into the movie. As always, your blog is written excellently, entertainingly, and straight to the point!
ReplyDeleteHello Muhammad! I have never watched any Christopher Nolan but now that you have brough it to my attention I must enjoy one during spring break! I have no understanding of movies or TV or anything that has to do with a big screen but I admire those who do. Filmmaking is a very complicated and intense process that requires not only a natural eye for a good shot but also a strong will to achieve what you want. Like many other artistic jobs and hobbies it is hard to make it big since there is only so much of a spotlight that needs to be shared and not everyone will enjoy your work. Nolan's movie concept seems very interesting and I am excited to see what he made since he has such a big part of the spotlight.
ReplyDelete