Sometimes, it's the way you tell 'em.

Rating: 10/10 (23 July 2012)

Sometimes, it's the way you tell 'em. Such is true of Christopher Nolan's Memento. Based on a short story brother by Jonanthan Nolan, the film is both inventive and compelling as it tells it's story in small chapters moving backwards through the narrative. This editing style is unique to the point that you really feel as though you are witnessing something that has never been done before. The story itself is very simple, the execution is a work of sheer excellence. Guy Pearce is Leonard Shelby, a man who through personal tragedy has lost the ability to create new memories beyond ten minutes and has to to keep detailed records of everything he does in order to function. Early on we learn the catalyst for Leoonard's memory dysfunction was the murder of his wife. Through tattooed notes inked over most of his body, Leonard is slowly gathering clues as to who her killer may be. Christopher Nolan's film is an intimate experience that stays thoroughly focused as the details gradually unravel. In many ways it's the closest equivalent to a compelling page turner as you find yourself eagerly awaiting the next chapter and slice of information. That intimate focus really allows the viewer to become involved in the mystery and gives you ample opportunity within to play detective yourself. With a production budget of just $9m Memento a triumph of intelligent, low budget film making from a director and creative team that were clearly destined for greatness.