Film of the Month: Inception
Christopher Nolan - one of the most talented writer-directors currently working in Hollywood - keeps up his 100% success rate with this creative, visually stunning and completely gripping sci-fi/espionage thriller.
Films on this scale; of this level of ambition, intelligence and complexity are all too rare. Yes, you'll spend the first 15-20 minutes in a state of mild confusion asking question after question, but that's a good thing! This is not switch-brain-to-neutral cinema. While, like any good summer blockbuster with a cast of A-list stars (headed by Leonardo DiCaprio) and a budget of more than $150m, it delivers plenty of huge-scale set pieces, car chases, fist fights and explosions, it's a cerebral action flick. But, don't worry: as the story progresses, everything is explained - in intricate detail.
It's understandable that 'Inception' has been compared to 'The Matrix'. In dealing with dream logic and the manipulation of the subconscious, the characters inhabit a world where the basic rules of physics don't exist and the importance of verisimilitude doesn't matter. This allows the artist (Nolan) to construct an original narrative space that's fantastical and surreal - but ultimately believable.
Now, this may sound like a complete cop-out, but it's very difficult to discuss the film in any depth, without potentially ruining the experience of seeing it for the first time. But, if you track me down on Twitter (@J_Hartigan), I'll happily debate all aspects of the movie, including the various theories behind 'Inception's hidden meanings and messages - and the significance of the final shot.
For the record: I believe the key to unlocking the "mystery" of this film is the same that opens the door to a proper understanding of Sergio Leone's 'Once Upon a Time in America' and David Lynch's 'Mulholland Drive'. I'll say no more, before I succeed in colouring your own interpretation of what I believe could be Nolan's greatest work to date.
In conclusion, this is a must-see movie - and one you should see on the biggest screen you can possibly find. If I was American, I'd describe 'Inception' as awesome. As a reserved Englishman, I'll go with incredible.
