It seems that everything Christopher Nolan touches turns to gold...this is another gold piece

Rating: 10/10 (8 August 2010)

The trailers that I saw for this movie built it up as another CGI-invested, sci-fi action flick. I'll be honest, I did not know what to expect when stepping into the movie theater. After a fast two and a half hours, I could not even begin to think of what to write about.
Following two viewings now, all I have to say is that this is one of Christopher Nolan's most brilliant works, probably his second best behind "The Dark Knight". Unlike "The Dark Knight" however, "Inception" is not just a pure action flick (there are some great action sequences by the way)-there is a unique plot that really drives the film.
As basic as I can explain, "Inception" explores the idea that people can get into a person's mind and steal his most precious ideas. Don Cobb (Leo Dicaprio) is a master at that, but his new assignment is to do the near impossible, plant a new idea. Similarly to "The Matrix", Inception's story borders on reality and the dream world, but unlike the Wachowski Brothers feat, this movie disorients both, leaving the viewer to wonder what's real and what's not. That's why I had to see this movie twice. Even after my second viewing, the film leaves the viewer to interpret it all.
In addition to the brilliant storyline, which Nolan spent years putting together; the movie has a kick ass cast who all deliver as likable characters, even if they are the thieves. Leo Dicaprio is particular worth noting. Over the years it seems that he has not only become a more versatile actor, but he is able to successfully deliver ambivalent characters that are plagued by a flaw or a sense of guilt from a haunted past. He probably won't receive an Oscar nomination for his role, but as Don Cobb, it marks as one of his best roles. I also love the works of Marion Cottilard and Ellen Page, the two women that try to influence Leo's character. Both don't exchange many lines with one another, but their mannerisms toward each other show the tension that affects the main character deeply.
Unfortunately though, Michael Caine does not have a whole lot of screen time. The five minutes he has though reveals himself as the wise old man we've seen in Nolan's Batman films. Pure magic I say.
The technical feats are flawless. CGI is nearly a common thread in cinema nowadays, but "Inception" has more than big explosions. I mean, a city folds itself over like a sheet of cloth! The cinematography, set design/art direction, editing, and sound design are all perfect; especially Hans Zimmer score. Some critics may call it bombastic (it is quite noticeable) but it adds to the dreamlike and disoriented atmosphere that makes up the film's essence.
I'll also add that there are a lot of slow-motion techniques, similar to "The Matrix". Unlike "The Matrix" though, it is not used to emphasize kung fu fighting, but to drawl out the effect of time in a dream state.
My final notes, "Inception" is an excellent film, and in my book, goes down as 2010's best movie, thus far. It seems that everything Christopher Nolan touches turns to gold. I just hope that he finally gets the Oscars he so deserves. If you haven't seen this movie yet, get off your butt and go to the nearest theater.
****/****