Gilliam's Blockbuster

Rating: 8/10 (18 December 2002)

Here's a far-fetched, stupid metaphor for you: Terry Gilliam is to film directors what an ivory, diamond-encrusted harpsichord is to a symphonic orchestra. A precious, unique artefact's, but a very impractical one, and without a doubt, an acquired taste. I love Gilliam for his relentless blending of poetry and silliness, his is a unique voice we should treasure more.
Someone in the early nineties clearly thought there was enough cross-over potential in not just Gilliam, but a story based on a niche classic, experimental 60s photo-montage film La Jetee, assigned homework of film students everywhere. From this seminal piece, writer David Peoples (Blade Runner, Unforgiven) crafted a nifty time-traveling thriller which, in safe hands, would have probably been a safe investment for the Summer season.
it's even nicer then, that someone threw caution to the wind and entrusted this, along with a sizable budget, to Gilliam, who not only managed to lure in heavy-hitter Bruce Willis, but draw from him unprecedented depth, pathos and commitment. Their collaboration made this a very unusual Summer blockbuster, and drew a very able supporting cast, chiefly Madeleine Stowe and Brad Pitt, the latter stealing every scene he appears in.
Narratively-speaking, many reviewers have pointed out that this is a bit of a one-off, the "twist" weighing so heavily over everything, but as with all Gilliam's work, the real beauty is in the small touches, many of which reward repeat viewings.