memento

Rating: 8/10 (12 May 2005)

Memento is one of those films that one struggles to keep up with because of its many sudden shifts in direction. However, if one can make it to the end of the film with even an inkling of understanding, consider yourself lucky. I first saw this film during its theatrical release, but when I viewed it this time, I still found myself trying desperately to piece together the story.
This film is about the main character Leonard?s search for the man who raped and killed his wife. His search has been made especially difficult due to the fact that he has a form of brain damage that inhibits him from creating new memories. (He remembers everything up to the point of his wife?s murder). Leonard is convinced that he can overcome his handicap if he relies on habit and routine. Throughout his investigation, he has collected certain clues and ?Facts,? which he has tattooed on his body. Leonard must place his faith in the notes he has written to himself over the course of his investigation. He has come to adhere to these notes without question because they are the only things he can really know for sure.
The film starts with the last scene and proceeds backward as we see how Leonard has arrived at his conclusions. This film questions what is and what is not real. Leonard is asked what kind of satisfaction he can possibly get from avenging his wife?s death. After all, he would not be able to remember it. Leonard?s response is that just because a person closes their eyes, it does not mean that the world disappears. He claims that he is not seeking vengeance for himself but for his wife.
Despite the unorthodox beginning and minor confusion as to what was really happening, I enjoyed this movie very much. Perhaps, I will watch it again in order to grasp an even better understanding of it.