6 Words: The Best Film Of The Year!

Rating: 10/10 (22 July 2010)

Just as the Dark Knight exploded as the ultimate adult vision of the comic-book story, Inception emerges as the sci-fi thriller masterpiece painted on the canvas of imagination.
With the astronomical expectations set by TDK, Christopher Nolan's Inception is a strong follow up that doesn't disappoint, and depending on your taste just may be a more satisfying film experience. I really shouldn't compare the two, other than they're both stem from the mind of Nolan. In the first case, avid fan appeal resides with Batman, the vigilante detective with 70 year history vs. his ultimate adversary which thanks to Nolan has finally been done right. But in the second case, the fan forum and discussion over Inception's concepts will long transcend.
**MINOR SPOILERS AHEAD** Nolan begins by introducing the concept: Inception is the ability to enter another's subconscious to introduce a thought via dream invasion. The creative possibilities are now limitless, which helps explain why it took Nolan over 10 years to get Inception onto the screen (which is probably fast considering his Batman commitments). The foundation of this multifaceted story is showcased then layered and structured so high, that it challenges the audience to keep up on its cinematic ride. I am interested to know if Nolan took inspirations from the Matrix (there are striking similarities) but in all fairness there's enough originality in Inception's own architecture and its storytelling.
Inception has a strong ensemble cast that are defined in purpose and precision. This team is effectively led in execution by Leo Dicaprio who himself delivers an intense and captivating performance. Ironic that Cillian Murphy, the former archenemy with a speciality of inflicting hallucinations, has been recast as the subject mind to infiltrate (I digress but is a monstrous grotesque Batman the only think that would lurk in the recesses of the Scarecrow's twisted mind?). I won't spoil plot points and character development further, as your first viewing should be largely untainted (other than reading favourable reviews) which will hopefully prove to be ultimately rewarding. And yes, Inception is one of those rare films that must be experienced again.
Over the years, Christopher's Nolan has earned the trust of fans with his continued command as a cinematic visionary no matter the subject matter. IMO I liken his film's success to Pixar's track record of "knocking it out of the park" with its original features and sequels. But in Nolan's case, consistently amusing and entertaining adults is arguably the more challenging and difficult task of the two.