Terrific...but needs to be watched a few times

Rating: 9/10 (7 January 2009)

This was my first David Lynch film so I was not fully prepared for what to expect. I also saw it on video so I was able to watch it, read about it online, and then watch it a few more times in a small span of time.
Now that I understand the movie, I recognize its brilliance. There are numerous interpretations as to whether or not the events of the film are shown in or out of sequence. This can be highly confusing for a viewer. Once you get past that, you notice the meticulously intertwined character arcs, the symbolism, the significance of seemingly insignificant scenes. The story, while simple, is powerful and dark. I never got bored. The acting is PHENOMENAL, particularly that of Naomi Watts. This was her breakthrough role for a reason - she shows amazing versatility and range in portraying the complicated character of Diane. The supporting performances were fine - no one stood out but no one was awful either.
See it but be prepared to not fully understand it til you see it a few more times.