MEMENTO

2001

If you enjoy puzzles, riddles, games , Rorschach tests, and movies like "The Sixth Sense," you'll love this movie. It's a puzzle, within a puzzle, within a puzzle, and if five people go to see it, there'll be five different versions of the story. I couldn't begin to try to summarize the plot, but I can say that it's about a man who has short-term memory loss (he can't remember what he said or did just moments before!)and who may or may not be in pursuit of the man who may or may not have killed his wife!!! Because of this disability, the "hero" and the audience are forced to relive everything that he's done, often in different, and conflicting versions.If you're looking for clues, AND YOU'D BETTER BE, look for the changes in the looks of his clothing and car.(Don't worry; I'm not giving away anything, because I don't have the answers either.) Two of the main characters may be telling the audience what REALLY happened, so listen carefully to what people are saying. Writer/Director Christopher Nolan won the prestigious Waldo Salt Screenplay Award at this year's Sundance Film Festival, for his script; he earned it. What a convoluted, intricate plot! In spite of this, I'm witholding one "star" because I think that the resolution could have been (and should have been) cleaner and clearer. Nevertheless, a fascinating and truly original film.

4 Stars

NJB

I can't hold back... this is the best movie I've seen since American Beauty. And, similarly, I'm making this an early pick for a best picture nomination. Guy Pearce stars as a man who suffers severe short-term memory loss and is trying to find his wife's killer. And that's all I really want to say. MEMENTO will grab you tight from the very beginning (or ending) and not let go of you until you're left exhausted, squirming in your seat, and quite possibly scratching your head in amazement. Pearce, Joe Pantoliano, and Carrie-Anne Moss all give excellent performances. A truly unique and remarkable film experience, this one is a must see. I do caution those of you, however, that have trouble following intricate plots- you've got to pay attention!

5 Stars

CDF