Rating of
4/4
Memento review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 08/31/11
An innovative Hitchcockian thriller with solid acting, extraordinary editing and a brilliant screenwriting. It’s the story of how insurance investigator Leonard Shelby (Guy Pierce) got his illness and unraveled a mystery of his wife’s murder. Natalie (Carrie-Anne Moss) aids Shelby in solving his concern and likewise asks a favor from him. Teddy (Joe Pantoliano also John Edward Gammell/corrupt cop), a compulsive liar who tries to assist Leonard by explaining certain events involving his life such as Sammy being a conman and that it was his wife that was diabetic. Thought provoking quotes from Leonard Shelby – “Memory can change the shape of a room; it can change the color of a car. And memories can be distorted. They're just an interpretation, they're not a record, and they're irrelevant if you have the facts.” I have to believe in a world outside my own mind. I have to believe that my actions still have meaning, even if I can't remember them. I have to believe that when my eyes are closed, the world's still there. Do I believe the world's still there? Is it still out there? … Yeah. We all need mirrors to remind ourselves who we are. I'm no different … now … where was I?” Teddy Gammell – “So you lie to yourself to be happy. There's nothing wrong with that. We all do it.”
Musical score and cinematography used on the picture was effective. The whole vibe of the movie was very realistic, which what they were aiming for. Method of storytelling was completely creative and interesting since it has never been done before. The execution was amazing since it still intertwines and experiences from thrill of each scene are exposed, reasons behind his mental lapses and notes on his bodies and pictures. Guy Pierce gives us a convincing display while Joe Pantoliano deserves merit for his presentation. It’s included in several “best movie lists” but some critics were not impressed. Nevertheless, the unique story, awesome acting and direction stand out. Themes of manipulation, trust, viewing the world, instinct, revenge, conditioning and investigation were tackled. The DVD boasts various features such as mind-benders to open special features, production stills, "Anatomy of a Scene" Sundance Channel Documentary and many more. Its manner of execution, remarkable performances, impressive twist and themes of dealing with memory loss, perception of life, and self-content are sufficient to make this film a quiet classic in its own right. In my estimation, this is definitely a “Memento” for serious mystery and film lovers alike.
