Why I liked Memento

Rating: Null/10 (23 May 2001)

[Note to readers: These comments are written specifically for those who have already seen Memento. I would recommend you see the film without reading this (or any other) review of the film. Save the reviews for later or you'll kill off one of the enjoyable aspects of seeing this film. In particular, I will be giving a lot away in the following paragraphs.]
There has been a lot of discussion about the `gimmick' in Memento (i.e., the backwards progression of the scenes)  some like it, some don't. But, I think this is one of the few instances in which it works. What better way is there to get the audience to ride along with the character than to put you in the same position? By not knowing what came right before, we are forced to struggle with Leonard's predicament rather than simply watch it.
I think that it is interesting how I began feeling sympathy for Leonard from the very beginning. Here was a guy who clearly has a horrible handicap. Instead of not trusting my true instincts, I believed that he could overcome his handicap simply by leaving himself notes and being organized. I found myself believing him and believe in him. In hindsight, I wonder how I could allow myself to let my guard down so much.
Of course I shouldn't believe this guy. He simply puts ideas together based on a couple of notes. That's absurd. Yet, it is only during the course of the film that I developed questions. I think it is a testament to the filmmaker that I can be drawn in like that. Perhaps it's the character's sincerity and confidence.
Finally, there have been criticisms of how this film leaves people confused, with questions, and without closure. Some people like closure in their films and I do too -- when it's appropriate. However, I feel there are some instances where you simply will never know the truth. I believe that in films that revolve around those situations, the lack of closure is not only acceptable, but preferable.
While some amateur reviewers (particularly on this website) have coined Memento a great breakthrough in filmmaking and one of the greatest thrillers ever, I think that is an exaggeration. It's a very good film that I recommend seeing, but I think there are about 5-10 films a year that are this good. (That said, I am implying that it will likely end up in my top 5 or 10 for the year, so I clearly liked it.)