entertaining but overrated

Rating: Null/10 (5 April 2003)

*spoilers* this is a very fun movie to watch the first time you see it. however, i found it so enjoyable only because lf the twist at the end, in particular when james cromwell tells guy pearce he is looking for rollo temassi. but a whole movie cant derive its merit from one scene, one plot twist.
i watched this movie for a second time and it was only mediocre knowing how everything eventually worked itself out. that is why i would rate this movie substantially less than perfect. it is good only after one viewing, and only due to the complexity of its plot. very similar to memento, but to a slightly lesser degree.
both are stylish movies that are a blast when you first put the pieces together. but once everything has been figured out, there is no redeeming value left.
no other aspects of the movie were particularly compelling. the love story between russell and kim was better than some, but i thought somewhat forced.
all other parts of the movie become substantially less enjoyable after knowing the ending, since they all relate to it. for that reason i give this 6/10.