Inception sets new standards of excellence

Rating: 10/10 (16 July 2010)

At first I wondered if it was wise to write this review immediately after seeing the film, but then I realized that my immediate response would be my own and unguided, and more pure to the movie-GOING experience, rather than the movie-reflective experience. (Though, I am certain this will remain a favorite for years to come, and my affection will perhaps grow the more I reflect.)
This was everything one hopes to get from a movie. Visually, it pushed the envelope: between the colors, the unique laws of physics, the variety of characters and settings, my eyes were treated a feast that was filling (which is rare anymore, in our over-stimulated times). Mentally and emotionally I was challenged and driven to new, exciting places: not only did I believe the rules established by the characters, I eagerly followed the characters into the depths of subconsciousness. I was taken to the far shores of my own understanding by this film, and I am grateful for that.
DiCaprio continues to have one of the only faces in Hollywood that can express the full emotional spectrum, and his ability to play mentally-struggling characters only gets better with each role. Marion Cotillard was hauntingly beautiful, and so present despite her technical non-presence. Ellen Page was convincing and continues to be enjoyably adorable. So many small details make this film unique too; everyone will find something different memorable: for me, it will remain the use of Edith Piaf's song and the totems.
At first I considered giving this film a 9 because there are rare moments where a scene feels rushed or the script is clunky; but then I realized that that is only when I compare the film to itself. Those rare moments (and I can't remember one specifically) are still of exceptional quality and above the usual pedigree expected in a film. What I am trying to say, is that I'd really like to give this film an 11, so in those rare moments it behaves like a 10--more humanly perfect than unimaginably perfect.
Now, I eagerly go to dream!