My favorite movie.

Rating: Null/10 (18 March 2003)

Perhaps some spoiler comments.
Mulholland Dr. is simply the most thought-provoking movie that I have seen. It is dark, very sensual and surreal of course, but resonant to everyone who dreams of great success (and who doesn't?)- masterfully filmed, with perfect, magical casting and a haunting, almost funereal score.
We are all, to some degree, Betty Elms/Diane Selwyn. The Bible as well as literary masterpieces throughout the ages are replete with the consistent theme of both good and evil coursing through the human heart. Everyone, no matter how accomplished, at some time, must deal with jealousy, rejection and the realization that all of our goals will not be fulfilled.
This film conveys these core messages quintessentially artfully and deviously via well-crafted sequence alteration and dreams, forcing the viewer to think and probably rewatch, as I have done joyfully on several occasions.
The metaphor of the venue of L.A. and the quest for film stardom therein perfectly represents all human aspiration. The multiple sub-plots and many almost insider references to "the business," e.g. the Sgt. Friday cops at the accident scene, the true powers behind Hollywood, the substitution of lip-synching for acting, and fake orchestration serve to add cynicism and texture to this fascinating story. The filmmaker has even couched the time setting of the film to both disorient the viewer and enhance the timeless relevance of the story.
The ensemble was perfect, with Laura Harring simply ravishing, and Naomi Watts turning in an amazing world-class performance.
David Lynch has outdone himself, having handily surpassed his previous outstanding work. He earns my total approbation and gratitude.