Review of Memento

Introduction

By now you`ve probably heard something about this film, as it has already become somewhat of a cult classic. I don`t really want to talk a lot about the film, because it`s another of those films that I believe you should watch without knowing too much about it. The plot is outlined above, and it perhaps almost tells you too much, so don`t study it in great detail before you come to watch the film for the first time.

What I can tell you is that it features another good performance from Guy Pearce (who would have thought it, there really is life as an actor after Neighbours), and an intriguing performance from Carrie Anne Moss, who you`ll probably know from The Matrix.

Video

A very good 2.35:1 anamorphic transfer, and I don`t remember seeing a single bit of dirt or dust. There is a washed out look that can be seen quite a lot during the film, but this appears to me to be intentional, so it`s not a criticism of this transfer.

The film is littered with lots of great visuals, and there are some little clues lying hidden in certain shots. And there`s one that`s almost subliminal, hidden in just a few frames of film. That`s a naughty little trick to play on your viewers, and one you can only expose when watching at home. From the opening shot right through to the end there`s plenty to entertain the eyes.

Audio

A DD5.1 soundtrack that is functional but not flash. It does have its moments, but these are few and far between. This isn`t really a criticism, since it`s not a case of missed opportunities, just an observation. Dialogue is clear and crisp, and everything is always audible.

The soundtrack, which is very sparingly used, is very effective and has a very "noir" feel to it. So whilst there`s not much to say about it, that`s actually a good thing since it does a very good job, and is very much in keeping with the tone of the film itself.

Features

Ok, let`s start with the much talked about "watch the film in chronological order" easter egg. It`s pretty easy to find, but I won`t spoil it for you by telling you how. A quick search in the Software Forum here on the site will yield the answer if you get stuck. Does the film still work when the story is told in this manner? I`d say it does to a certain extent but you do lose something in the way that the characters develop. It`s hard to say exactly what, but if you watch it, you`ll probably understand.

There are a few other extras on offer here too, including a very good TV interview with director Chris Nolan which avoids the usual descent into PR fluff and clips from the film, and actually concentrates on questions and answers. You also get the complete shooting script with scribbled notes and the option to jump in and out of the film at various points.

You can also read the original short story "Memento Mori" (also the name of an X Files episode, trivia fans). This is the story that the film was based on, written by the director`s brother. You`ll also find a photo gallery of tattoos (different from the usual stills-from-the-film-filled galleries), biographies, a local copy of the otnemem.com web site (usable with a normal DVD player), and the original trailer for the film.

A good selection of extras, but more are promised on the forthcoming region 1 special edition.

Conclusion

An excellent film, presented on a very good disc. It`s another of those films that divides audiences, but if you look at the rankings on IMDB it`s currently at number 10 with 25000 votes, and is at number 1 in the "Thriller" list. Being voted for in polls doesn`t necessarily make it a good film, but I`m going with the majority on this one as I thoroughly enjoyed watching it. You can watch it in both directions (so to speak) and still be entertained, and you`ll probably want to go back and watch it again to look for more clues.

Some people describe films that don`t give you all the answers as lazy, while other people like to watch films which don`t shove everything under your nose, and instead make you think and interpret the on-screen events in your own way. Personally I prefer something that makes you think, makes you concentrate on what`s going on, and leaves you to work some of it out for yourself. At a time when I`ve been wondering if films aren`t as good as they used to be, it`s refreshing to watch a film like Memento, and discover that the future might actually be a bit brighter than I thought.

This DVD is currently the best way to own the film but do look out for the region 1 special edition, rumoured to be appearing during April 2002. Rent this version if you want a film that makes you think, and buy it if you really can`t wait for the region 1 special edition.

Highly recommended.