Clever and well-done surreal fantasy film

Rating: 9/10 (9 September 2017)

Predating both the "Matrix" (1999) and "Inception" (2010), 1998's "Dark City" is an excellent 'shifting realities' fantasy film. The story, which revolves around perceptions and memory, is excellent, as is the dark, 'goth' look of the film (at times somewhat reminiscent of "Hellraiser"). The acting is generally good (and fun, with a couple of the "Strangers" played by Rocky Horror creator Richard O'Brian and "The Road Warrior"s 'gyro-captain' Bruce Spence), although a pre-"24" Kiefer Sutherland is a bit over-the-top as the shambling, hoarse Dr. Schreber. The effects are excellent by late '90's standards and effective by any standard. All in all, a great dark-fantasy film that seems less well-known than is deserved. Try to avoid the unnecessary opening voice-over (apparently absent on the director's cut), it gives away too much of the plot.