Is all that we see or seem but a dream within a dream?

Rating: 8/10 (15 September 2010)

If I were to venture the opinion that Christopher Nolan has had the best track record among directors in the past decade there are probably many who would agree with me. Fresh off the huge success of "The Dark Knight", Nolan's latest project was hotly anticipated and, in my opinion, has proved to be his best effort yet.
"Inception" takes place in a world where individuals have access to technology which allows them to enter into the dreams of others. The film focuses on a crack team of 'dream thieves' who specialize in extraction; that is, stealing the valuable secrets of others. However, for their latest job they've been tasked with the highly difficult, if not impossible, job of implanting an idea in someone's subconscious.
If I had to describe the film in a couple of words I'd call it a cerebral thriller. Nolan's script is intricate to say the least but the plot is also full of action. Accordingly, I'd advise you to pay close attention or the 'dream within a dream' layering will have you lost in no time.
The cast is a good one, with the always dependable Leonardo DiCaprio leading the way. Marion Cotillard also delivers a fine performance as the subconscious version of DiCaprio's deceased wife. In support, the film features some alumni from previous Nolan films (Cillian Murphy, Ken Watanabe & Michael Caine) along with some new faces (Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt & Tom Berenger).
Nolan's direction is ably handled, as usual, even if it isn't as accomplished as his writing. Similarly, the Hans Zimmer score serves its purpose but isn't especially noteworthy. The special effects, while not awe-inspiring, are uniformly effective.
I'll admit that I thought that "The Dark Knight" was highly overrated and hampered by its PG-13 rating. This film, on the other hand, rises above the usual expectations for a summer blockbuster and has the audacity to challenge the audience. I can only hope that others follow suit.