This is (for a Lynch film) very straight forward, and one of the best of the year

Rating: 9/10 (14 October 2001)

For a David Lynch film (Blue Velvet, Wild At Heart, Eraserhead, Twin Peaks TV Series) this is a pretty simple story. Most people are getting caught up in the 'what the?, and the huh?' factor when in reality it is pretty straight forward. I will not give the story away due to spoiling the film, only saying that half of the film is a dream sequence [mocking a cliched hollywood story], the rest afterwards takes place kind of in flashbacks explaining everything (an NO it is not difficult to figure out). The only other thing I can say is that it also portrays the idea of the dark side of Hollywood in the way actors are abused and repeatedly humiliated in the 'business'. This is without question one of the best films of the year.
I can only say that this film had me glued to my seat. The lead actresses were so perfect and accompanied by a great soundtrack which set the perfect tone. Lynch goes for a very complete film noir with dark rooms, shadows, even some 40's hairstyles and even the shots outside in the daylight seem mysterious and eerie. Complemented by Lynch's dark humour, this film also has many funny moments, and some of the most memorable bizarre characters (following up on the Twin Peaks like-ness) I've ever seen on screen.
This is definatly the year for film noir since 2 of the best films this year are this one and Memento. For those who are not 'getting it' it's kind of unfortunate and they are probably reading too much into it particularly the first half. If you REALLY want to be confused go see Eraserhead (which this movie borrows alot from in style).
Great scenes, Great mood, Great look, Great feel, Great casting, Great concept. I had a blast with this film but others may not due to Lynch's qwerkyness. Some like it, some don't I myself have never been a huge fan of Lynch, but when I think back to how much I liked Eraserhead, Wild At Heart, The Straight Story, and now this film, I think I will seek him out more often (with the exception of Dune). One of the best films of the year.
Rating 9 out of 10