Christopher Nolan directs from his own script, which manages to be playful while heaping surprise upon shock. Memento is not a comedy, but Nolan knows more about human nature than those forty-somethings. He knows it's possible to laugh at a senile aunt, but to still love her with all your heart. My wife, dying. In his previous life, Lenny was an insurance investigator, and he covered the case of Sammy Jankis, who had the same condition Lenny now has.
Memento is the rare movie that offers a backstory as compelling as the main plot.
The Sammy Jankis plotline is emotionally compelling, with a shattering outcome. Teddy is played by Joe Pantoliano, who is perfect for the part. An actor's actor, Pantoliano is one of those actors who register a solid presence on the screen, but you never quite remember him later. Finally, Guy Pearce hands in a letter perfect performance as Lenny. He's wounded and vulnerable, with eyes that have learned to fake recognition to survive.