Extraordinary Unexpected Mind Fluff

Rating: 10/10 (6 May 2004)

I have to admit upfront, when I saw the poster of this movie advertised at the local multiplex, I thought the movie was going to be another mindless teenage horror flick...so I skipped it altogether.
About a year later, my roomate (who has a $10K surround sound system) was practically waiting for me at the front door as I opened it and said, "Dude, sit down. You HAVE to watch this."
Keep in mind, we had the volume so high, the walls shook the first time the bunny spoke. Chills ran down my spine. Not the kind of chills you get when you're psuedo-scared...the kind you get when excitement pierces right through you. The next hour and half was so amazing...so completely opposite of what I expected the film to be...that I walked away knowing it would be in my top 10 list of favourite films...forever.
The movie is more like a drug than it is a film. Watching it over and over is like chasing the dragon...so I highly recommend viewing this film for the first time without interuption, and on the best system you can get your hands on. You don't need extra substance help to trip out on this movie...trust me.
Now the mechanics. First of all, the script is near genius. I say "near" because the "ending" isn't as accessible or cohesive as it could have been...and some people may walk away shaking their heads in bemusement, total confusion, or agitation because it's not linear. Ebert phrased it well in his review of the movie. The cinematography was dream like and silky smooth. Great shots & angles throughout captured the mood and intensity each scene required. Speaking of mood...the soundtrack could not be more perfect. As far as I'm concerned, Michael Andrews is a genius...and so is Richard Kelley for picking him.
I do hope Kelley continues to make films like this. Surreal and magical. Philosophical masterpieces that question the very foundation and fabric of the universe. I love it.