Memento

9

MovieMasterEddyApr 17, 2016

A bravura tribute to the spirit of “Point Blank” and the importance of short-term memory, “Memento” deconstructs time and space with Einstein-caliber dexterity in the service of a delectably disturbing tale of revenge. British-bornA bravura tribute to the spirit of “Point Blank” and the importance of short-term memory, “Memento” deconstructs time and space with Einstein-caliber dexterity in the service of a delectably disturbing tale of revenge. British-born scripter-helmer Christopher Nolan avoids the sophomore slump with flying colors while deepening some of the themes so craftily explored in his debut effort, “Following.” Pic’s aggressively nonlinear structure and subtle accretion of clues suggest a second viewing may yield additional rewards, although it’s all there the first time around for attentive auds.

Opening credits show a hand holding a Polaroid photo of a bloodied dead man lying face down on concrete. The photo “un-develops” — indicating the scene is being shown in reverse. It’s a crucial image as well as an apt intro to a story told via constant episodes of backtracking and partial repetition, all meticulously layered to approximate the waking nightmare and endless conundrum of Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce, with bleached blond hair and an American accent).

If ever there was an unreliable narrator, Leonard is it. He can recall everything that happened in his life until the night of the assault that left his wife dead and him with brain damage from being hit over the head. Since then, he hasn’t been able to make a memory “stick.”

Thanks to his condition, Leonard is simultaneously miserable and serene. He has to write himself notes about everything, with the most crucial reminders concerning his mission — such as “John G. raped and murdered your wife” — tattooed on his skin. Unable to remember anyone he’s met post-assault, no matter how many times they’ve interacted, Leonard takes Polaroids of everyone he meets and jots captions on them such as “She will help you out of pity” (in reference to a barmaid, played by Carrie-Anne Moss) or “Don’t believe his lies” (in reference to an alleged friend, played by Joe Pantoliano).

Leonard’s curse is that even if he does get revenge, he won’t remember it a few minutes later. His condition also puts a fresh, frequently comical, twist on elements as basic as a chase scene: Leonard is running, but he can’t recall whether he’s doing the chasing or is being chased.

Terrific idea and ingenious execution may wear thin or grow irritating for viewers unaccustomed to paying close attention. But anybody who dug the trippy triptych structure of “Pulp Fiction” should be able to keep up with the temporal shifts as narrative moves back, forward and sometimes sideways with the alacrity of a crab scuttling across the widescreen. Dody Dorn’s editing is top-notch as pic — scripted, acted and lensed with precision — smoothly toggles back and forth between sequences in B&W and in color.

Pearce is superb, Moss and Pantoliano are vital sounding boards for Leonard’s quest and Mark Boone Jr. is a hoot as the motel desk clerk who rents Leonard two rooms on the theory he won’t recall having paid for either one. Stephen Tobolowsky is poignant as another victim of short-term memory loss whose sad evolution haunts Leonard.

L.A.-set pic has an impressive noir-in-the-sunshine feel, built of cars, bars, motels and isolated hideaways. The ambient rumble of the unsettling, ominous score contributes enormously to the discomfiting mood.… Expand

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9

sjwilkinSep 23, 2016

The movie that made Nolan catch my eye. An absolute beast of a movie, nearly perfect in every way. The movie is cut up in to small sections (much like the memory capacity of the protagonist) and played out to the viewer back to front. TheThe movie that made Nolan catch my eye. An absolute beast of a movie, nearly perfect in every way. The movie is cut up in to small sections (much like the memory capacity of the protagonist) and played out to the viewer back to front. The movie starts with the last scene in real chronological order and you start the mystery there. Whilst it does not spoon-feed you the answers, it does answer all the questions you may have - thus fulfilling the story and satisfying everyone who watches it. Superb.… Expand

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9

opethagallochNov 18, 2017

The first masterpiece of the genius Cristopher Nolan. The most innovative thing about this movie is the way the plot unfolds, which made me think of the movie Irreversible, but this time, the "backwards" plot actually makes sense from aThe first masterpiece of the genius Cristopher Nolan. The most innovative thing about this movie is the way the plot unfolds, which made me think of the movie Irreversible, but this time, the "backwards" plot actually makes sense from a narrative point of view.… Expand

7 of 8 users found this helpful71

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9

hughes857Dec 19, 2017

A completely underrated film that gave Christopher Nolan a tool to use in his later movies. This movie is not only physiologically enticing but also a movie that will continue to pester your mind until you'll stop questioning yourself. PardonA completely underrated film that gave Christopher Nolan a tool to use in his later movies. This movie is not only physiologically enticing but also a movie that will continue to pester your mind until you'll stop questioning yourself. Pardon my words, but this was a complete **** of a movie. I cannot express in words of how mysterious and rare this film is in the film industry. 9.5/10.… Expand

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9

amheretojudgeAug 25, 2019

If I could remember it, I'd call it the most malleable mythology I ever faced.

Memento Nolan's career defining and signature marking neo noir film is a bold statement on not just filmmaking but entertainment industry too. And he does it byIf I could remember it, I'd call it the most malleable mythology I ever faced.

Memento

Nolan's career defining and signature marking neo noir film is a bold statement on not just filmmaking but entertainment industry too. And he does it by raising a simple question. How far should you go as a storyteller to express yourself and communicate coherently to your viewers? In this case, it is evidently reported for 8 years to put all this puzzled work in one big crime scene. Leanord (Guy Pearce) is suffering from short term memory loss and for a guy who can barely survive going through his own routine, he has embarked himself to cross a big revengeful mountain.

To be honest, the film does most of its magic on paper. What's to wonder about is, Nolan who used props and elements for the style in Following, has now cornered himself into being obliged to use those same props. But this is Nolan, he doesn't bow down to such limitations in the script. He has simply jumbled up the events for some levity and uses it to give you enough reason to hang on to this trippy ride. Once again, the editing gets a shout out, But I'd also like to mention Nolan's choice of picturization of those abstract yet contextual repetitive part of the act. He hides the facts by acknowledging the fact that he is hiding it. Nolan has confessed that he loved using the similar picturization of both the flashbacks and real time screenplay that he learned from Terrence Malick's style, especially from The Thin Red Line.

Let's follow the lead character Leonard and Pearce embodying a tattooed (scarred) personality as such. The bluff of Nolan is how to make him sympathetic that goes unnoticed in the film. His handicapped part of the personality is abused over and over by the other characters that actually mirrors their own figure, and as a result you are worried sick and exhausted by this experience. And Pearce plays it simply as Nolan reveals it in the "guilty" section of the storytelling, later in the film. The assumption is what leads us into this misunderstanding. Not the props, not the Memento.… Expand

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9

merijnjFeb 21, 2018

(93/100)
Backwards? Aaaaaah it's backwards! This is a f*cking amazing movie.

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9

LivingTribunalApr 24, 2018

when I first saw this film, I was simply shocked. It's not only 100 minute film, because it will make you think about this for a year. I loved the way that Chris Nolan formed the plot, and showing everything out when it was climax. It's thewhen I first saw this film, I was simply shocked. It's not only 100 minute film, because it will make you think about this for a year. I loved the way that Chris Nolan formed the plot, and showing everything out when it was climax. It's the best film in 2000 for me, and I crazily love this film.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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9

0326990qdiun123Apr 27, 2018

크리스토퍼 놀란 감독이 얼마나 천재적인 감독인지 보여주는 영화.

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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9

XsibiterApr 28, 2021

A Christopher Nolan's masterpiece, the complex narrative is skillfully executed, keeping audiences guessing. Overall it's up to us, our interpretation, it's not just about the evidence.

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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9

TheEventsOf1989Jan 4, 2020

The most original format to a simple revenge/thriller, the story genuinely puts the audience in the brain of the protagonist.

7 of 7 users found this helpful70

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9

Daniel_The_JustJun 22, 2020

When I first heard about this film I was intriguied.And the thing that got my attention was not only the name of it's creator but the fact that our protoganist is having a rather strange and frightening sickness.
Many say that the movie isWhen I first heard about this film I was intriguied.And the thing that got my attention was not only the name of it's creator but the fact that our protoganist is having a rather strange and frightening sickness.
Many say that the movie is hard to understand or that it's structure is very complex.Well personally I don't think so.
I watched the movie with great enjoyment.I remember the moment when realized HOW the movie works and trust me it was a thrilling realization.
You may not like the characters as people,but you will surely believe that they are real. The storyline itself is great.It has many hidden parts and interesting details that took me one more watch to fully see and understand most of them.I won't spoil it for you,because even the slightest hint could ruin your experience,and trust this experience should't be ruined.
The only thing is that I didn't quite remembered the soundtrack,but in other aspects the movie is fantastic and must be watched.
9/10.… Expand

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9

danielreviews0Dec 22, 2020

This movie was so beautifully put together. Without a doubt one of my all time favorites.

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9

AJ_13Jan 11, 2021

Nolan's playground. Its so clever the way in which it is narrated and lets us feel the same way Lenny does.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

Catenary44Jun 7, 2021

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9

Aerialist277Jun 19, 2021

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9

Pluto744Jun 19, 2021

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9

ReceptacleJun 22, 2021

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9

Xenophobe114Jun 24, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I guessed... I never got close.

I know that it's a little late by now for this review considering this movie is twenty years old by now. However, it's still amazing. The way that Christopher Nolan puts this movie in a jumbled order that you don't quite realize until halfway through is genius. What's very interesting is how you have to think for a while then you get it. Spoilers ahead stop reading if you haven't seen it yet! You have the movie starting with him shooting Teddy, and then how he got there in the next scene, but what's funny is you think it's leading up to (or I guess leading down to) how he's going to reveal that Teddy is the bad guy. He is not! He's a cop, a not crooked one but a cop all the same, that's using a guy with no short-term memory to kill off drug dealers. Then you have Natalie, who seems nice but is ripping him off just the same and is using him to kill drug dealers that are competition and to get the cop off of the streets. You have him being used by everyone around to fit their purpose, turning him from a man on a revenged quest to basically a serial killer. They make him kill who they want as long as they justify it will help him. It's very well told and really makes you mad that the guy you're rotting for is a killer that's been duped. Nobody is a good guy. There is no hero. And why is it good then? It plays with your mind so well, you walk away and contemplate on it forever. Great movie, one of Nolan's best ever.… Expand

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9

Shroud189Jun 26, 2021

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9

Palindrome704Jun 27, 2021

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9

Anisette570Jul 6, 2021

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9

Stagger74Jul 11, 2021

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9

Acquit77Jul 16, 2021

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1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

Abbatoir89Sep 4, 2021

@#$%@#$%@#$%@#$%#$%#$%#$%@#$%@#$%@#$%#$#$@##%@#$%@#$%+÷+
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9

MeIAmIApr 18, 2023

Just rewatched it. 3rd time since seeing it in the theater. Still one of the best movies I've ever seen, and my favorite Nolan movie. It's spot-on noir, and I feel more like a date give each time I watch it. The arthouse style and melodramaJust rewatched it. 3rd time since seeing it in the theater. Still one of the best movies I've ever seen, and my favorite Nolan movie. It's spot-on noir, and I feel more like a date give each time I watch it. The arthouse style and melodrama juxtaposed with Teddy's schtick shows how different Leonard's world is from the real one and another being fabricated by multiple people. I wish more movies were done this way, because it's gritty and realistic while being dreamy in a dark visceral sense.… Expand

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9

conjitsuuJul 5, 2023

Very creative and cool, has some good plot twists too, one of the better Christopher Nolan Movies.

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8

LOmarGJun 2, 2012

An intelligent suspense thriller with enough attention to detail to merit repeat viewings. Splendid acting. Excellent score. Fantastic balance between violence, dialogue, and mystery. It really does a great job of presenting the story inAn intelligent suspense thriller with enough attention to detail to merit repeat viewings. Splendid acting. Excellent score. Fantastic balance between violence, dialogue, and mystery. It really does a great job of presenting the story in a nontraditional unchronological way. I have yet to see another brainy feature such as this.… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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8

796712Sep 27, 2010

memento is one of christopher nolans best for me i loved the idea of a film being played backwards its what really gets to me and why i love this film unfortunatley i gave it an 8 because the story line could have been a little improved likememento is one of christopher nolans best for me i loved the idea of a film being played backwards its what really gets to me and why i love this film unfortunatley i gave it an 8 because the story line could have been a little improved like if the main character has a loss of memory why is it that he nows that and why is it that the people he tells arent surprised of this other than that and a few things it was an amazing film oh and by the way a fantastic twist… Expand

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8

TyranianApr 12, 2019

A very clever film from maestro Nolan with excellent performances and writing.

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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8

jmydizonDec 5, 2011

This is one of Nolan's best films in his career. A film that keeps you thinking about who did what or what happened that caused this. The fact that this film is not in chronological order makes it worth its genre of being a mystery. AlthoughThis is one of Nolan's best films in his career. A film that keeps you thinking about who did what or what happened that caused this. The fact that this film is not in chronological order makes it worth its genre of being a mystery. Although some of the scenes are worth looking over to actually understand the movie much better. The story to this movie is superb though, just a lack of understanding the movie is its downfall. Otherwise great film, good acting, and terrific writing. A movie to see before you die.… Expand

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

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8

House0fWolves_Dec 16, 2011

Unusual way of telling a story, that's for sure. This combined with the acting and filming puts the cherry on top of this cupcake. I recommend watching this to anyone up for a mind game.

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8

imthenoobMay 20, 2016

There is no denying that Memento is going to go down as one of the most original films of all time. You've never seen a film like it before and that's one of the big reasons why it's so good. This was Nolan's first big film and it launchedThere is no denying that Memento is going to go down as one of the most original films of all time. You've never seen a film like it before and that's one of the big reasons why it's so good. This was Nolan's first big film and it launched his career and helped turn him into one of the greatest film makers of our time. This isn't all about him though. The cast does such a wonderful job too and really help bring the story to life.

Honestly, If you have never seen it, Take 2 hours out of your day and watch it. It's a classic.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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8

AlvaradoKTAAug 5, 2012

Memento is somewhat overrated. It's an alright movie with okay actors and a good director.Nonetheless, Memento should be praised for a good reason. It is exactly the type of film it want to be, Nolan was going through a hipster phase andMemento is somewhat overrated. It's an alright movie with okay actors and a good director.Nonetheless, Memento should be praised for a good reason. It is exactly the type of film it want to be, Nolan was going through a hipster phase and decided to make this out of chronological order. And for something this chopped and screwed, it still makes sense by the end.… Expand

2 of 17 users found this helpful215

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8

seancriswellSep 2, 2012

A well written, well acted mind bender. The first case for Nolan's genius. Like all Nolan films if your looking for plot mistakes, you will undoubtedly come up with some. Also like Nolan's other films it is endlessly smart, entertaining andA well written, well acted mind bender. The first case for Nolan's genius. Like all Nolan films if your looking for plot mistakes, you will undoubtedly come up with some. Also like Nolan's other films it is endlessly smart, entertaining and ambiguous. I won't say much more, this is definitely a movie to see before reading anything about.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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8

ReubenIsAGodSep 29, 2014

Amazing Film, feels like a character study on short-term memory loss. Very integrating plot and the way in which the film is directed was very unique for its time. Brilliant example of film as an art form. yet because of this and the way inAmazing Film, feels like a character study on short-term memory loss. Very integrating plot and the way in which the film is directed was very unique for its time. Brilliant example of film as an art form. yet because of this and the way in which the film is directed the film is very hard to follow and, at times, can be very confusing.… Expand

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8

WaelJul 27, 2017

Notes, polaroids, and tattoos... 'Memento' is a very nice movie dealing with a man's hunt for the man who raped his wife and struck him in the head. It's intriguing, and it makes you think in cycles. Although hard to fully grasp at first, theNotes, polaroids, and tattoos... 'Memento' is a very nice movie dealing with a man's hunt for the man who raped his wife and struck him in the head. It's intriguing, and it makes you think in cycles. Although hard to fully grasp at first, the direction truly shines (we expect nothing less from Christopher Nolan) and the backwards-moving colored scenes and the forward-moving black-and-white scenes merge in true cinematic fashion. This film was a true pleasure to watch.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

BradySmithMar 19, 2015

Without a doubt one of the most original and clever movies I have ever seen. Now, the idea actually came from Christopher Nolan's brother Jonathan, but he elaborates upon that short story with striking skill and intelligence. It's anWithout a doubt one of the most original and clever movies I have ever seen. Now, the idea actually came from Christopher Nolan's brother Jonathan, but he elaborates upon that short story with striking skill and intelligence. It's an extremely stylish and memorable noir, and I can see why it launched Nolan's career to the next level. Guy Pierce's performance was also excellent. I do have some problems with it though. After about an hour there came moments for me where I was starting to be turned off by the extreme complexity of the narrative. I was starting to get a headache. However, the movie does recover quickly. The ending is really good and I doubt that most people will see it coming. I highly recommend this movie to anyone interested in complex murder mysteries and film noir. Good job again Christopher Nolan.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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8

shpreaJun 30, 2014

Memento is unlike any movie I have ever seen. The idea of a movie moving backwards is something I didn't really think was possible until I saw it. The movie as a whole is near brilliant. However, while it is interesting to watch, it isn'tMemento is unlike any movie I have ever seen. The idea of a movie moving backwards is something I didn't really think was possible until I saw it. The movie as a whole is near brilliant. However, while it is interesting to watch, it isn't necessarily entertaining, and parts of it can get a bit boring. That's not to say this movie is lacking in any way. It just isn't exactly the "masterpiece" everyone is making it out to be. It's still great though.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

ypomoniJul 5, 2013

OK, you didn't expect that! Every way of the film, you think you know what's going to happen but you don't! it's got the right pace, right amount of suspense, and a brilliant twist. Christopher Nolan was making sure he was someone we shouldOK, you didn't expect that! Every way of the film, you think you know what's going to happen but you don't! it's got the right pace, right amount of suspense, and a brilliant twist. Christopher Nolan was making sure he was someone we should certainly pay attention to.… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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8

TheApplegnomeJun 7, 2015

It might be the most mind-bending Nolan-movie to date, and it truly is spectacular.

After seeing all the other masterpieces by C Nolan, I thought it was time to watch his first big movie; Memento. The non-linear structure and the constantIt might be the most mind-bending Nolan-movie to date, and it truly is spectacular.

After seeing all the other masterpieces by C Nolan, I thought it was time to watch his first big movie; Memento. The non-linear structure and the constant character motivations is a classic trait by Nolan. Memento is no exception. The first time I saw this movie I didn't really understand all of it. I only gave this movie a 5/10. But after watching it again and experienced the grasp of Memento am I totally convinced that this really is a blockbuster. The movie is so refreshing with its unique structure and excellent actors. The plot is very solid and because we're talking about a man that can't make new memories is this movie even greater. Because of the unique structure; the audience is forgetting what they just saw. It's the same with the main character. That tight connection between the audience and the movie makes this movie wonderful. But you really need to pay attention. If you miss something you risk missing the greater importance. And if you do; watch it again!

Memento really is a fabulous movie. The cinematography is very smooth and the acting is phenomenal. There's really nothing bad about it. It's one interesting, deep and flawless movie. It even got the classic Nolan-ending, the part of the movie that has the most plot-twists.

People may say Interstellar is too ambitious; but Memento isn't? Memento is one refreshing, awesome and non-linear thriller that's highly enjoyable. But not as great as his newer creations.

8/10… Expand

1 of 8 users found this helpful17

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8

usherd369Mar 31, 2014

Nolan's infamous protagonist played eloquently by Guy Pierce as well as the ordering remains to be the most memorably to Memento. These two aspects, as well as the plot being enticing enough to the viewer, carry the rest of the film intoNolan's infamous protagonist played eloquently by Guy Pierce as well as the ordering remains to be the most memorably to Memento. These two aspects, as well as the plot being enticing enough to the viewer, carry the rest of the film into 'great' territory. Still a must-see either way.… Expand

1 of 12 users found this helpful111

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8

AkashVijayJan 19, 2015

Memento is a terrific study in self-delusion and it's intricately written by writer/director Chris Nolan. It's not a perfect film. The notions of mind and memory have been oversimplified a bit but at it's heart Memento is a very dark film.Memento is a terrific study in self-delusion and it's intricately written by writer/director Chris Nolan. It's not a perfect film. The notions of mind and memory have been oversimplified a bit but at it's heart Memento is a very dark film. It's about how humans are incapable of being honest with themselves about themselves. And you have to applaud Nolan's originality here.… Expand

0 of 8 users found this helpful08

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8

alejandro970Sep 10, 2017

The modest begginings of director of Inception, Batman trilogy and Dunkirk. An innovative way to narrate film noir: in backwards. Remarkable Guy Pierce as an insurance detective trying to find the murderer of his wife. Requires lots ofThe modest begginings of director of Inception, Batman trilogy and Dunkirk. An innovative way to narrate film noir: in backwards. Remarkable Guy Pierce as an insurance detective trying to find the murderer of his wife. Requires lots of attention and discipline from viewer.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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8

Creeper3455Aug 2, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After watching Memento,i feel like Christopher Nolan wants to make very complex stories with each movie,because if Following (1999) had a maze-alike story,so does Memento,but in a very complex way. The film opens with a well-edited scene (playing in reverse) of Danny shooting at some guy that we'll know at the 5-minute mark of this movie. And from then,the movie will play like a puzzle game. We have 2 different stories:
1.A Black and White calm before the Storm.
In this prologue (apparently shot in Widescreen Black And White) ,we follow Danny as he's talking with an unknown contact,on his phone,about him trying to recover a man who has the same problem as Danny: Short-term memory loss. This long prologue will be the beginning to the actual movie,which will make the long black and white scene interrupt at some point.
2.It's Begun,Danny.
These scenes shot in colors will make the black and white prologue interrupt at some point,explaining us what happened,obviously,after the black and white prologue. Having watched them felt like watching another movie,only from the end credits to the beginning.
We also see Danny's strong relation with other contacts,like Natalie,or Gary.
Then,before the last minutes would pop up in high gear,the Black and White prologue turns to a colorful scene,explaining us that the black and white scene would be the actual prologue to the movie,and that's where the actual movie (cut in colorful snippets) begins.
.
I don't know,man...But the story REALLY felt like one of those complex Math tests,where you rarely succed,but mostly fail. Maybe it was the amazing screenplay that made it feel like one of those expiriences. The acting,as always,was top notch,especially Guy Pearce as Danny,because you could have really felt that something was wrong with him. And,as i said,even the editing is well done,especially when the movie began.
In the end,the excellent editing and the really complex story and screenplay makes Memento one of the most complex movies i saw in a very long time,if not also an improvement over Nolan's career as a director.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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8

akenaton1984Nov 11, 2017

Ya estaban en ella uno de los tropos que los hermanos Nolan. Sobre todo en lo que se refiere a la necesidad de un mentira para sostener la realidad o la sociedad. En este caso, el filme nos lleva a los vericuetos de alguien que ha perdido laYa estaban en ella uno de los tropos que los hermanos Nolan. Sobre todo en lo que se refiere a la necesidad de un mentira para sostener la realidad o la sociedad. En este caso, el filme nos lleva a los vericuetos de alguien que ha perdido la memoria y pide al público ser parte activa en reconstruir la historia.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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8

bertboy93Jul 17, 2020

very original movie, with an underrated performence by guy pierce. the non-linear story was amazing.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

Karl-OskarApr 7, 2020

This film is an interesting puzzle which as it seems don't need much money instead a creative mind. Memento is very special, in a good way of course, and is the first film I've seen to have its storyline play backwards, which fits perfectlyThis film is an interesting puzzle which as it seems don't need much money instead a creative mind. Memento is very special, in a good way of course, and is the first film I've seen to have its storyline play backwards, which fits perfectly with the main character's condition, I think the notes and pictures are so awesome and a really important component to the film. Memento, in my opinion, is a little sharper than Shutter Island. But all the things in Memento doesn't make sense which offends me a bit.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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8

umrttlJan 8, 2023

Movie was hard to follow while multitasking. Ending was really good and I think id enjoy this a lot more on a second watch

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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7

Nrich46Jul 19, 2011

The creative plot-line and story are the highlights of Christopher Nolan's film. He took what could have been an average story and made it really stand-out with his daring plot devices. The cinematographic elements are of above-averageThe creative plot-line and story are the highlights of Christopher Nolan's film. He took what could have been an average story and made it really stand-out with his daring plot devices. The cinematographic elements are of above-average quality, while the screenplay gives it's best fight at ruining the film altogether (aka the constant narration). It is an entertaining piece, could've been excellent with a few tweaks in the way of dialogue. (Officially I would give a 6.5, but that is not an option).… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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7

Bazsa1Jun 20, 2014

Christopher Nolan's Memento is movie that was surely a pain in the *ss to make. If the plot wasn't interesting and complex enough, they decided to put the scenes in reverse order and to have another storyline where the main character LeonardChristopher Nolan's Memento is movie that was surely a pain in the *ss to make. If the plot wasn't interesting and complex enough, they decided to put the scenes in reverse order and to have another storyline where the main character Leonard is talking on the phone with somebody. Both was a very interesting and innovative way to tell a story.
The story is about insurance investigator Leonard Shelby who has short term memory loss. He can't make new memories and he forgets everything what happened to him recently in about 5 or 10 minutes. His last memory is his wife dying. He decided to find the guy who killed her no matter what. He makes notes, tattoos, documents about the recently acquired information and takes photos of people he met, cars, places he was in recently and with these thing he tries to find the guys named John G.
Christopher Nolan's genius is perceivable in this movie. Showing us the scenes backwards is clever because it shows us how Leonard sees a situation. When a scene starts we know as much about his status as Leonard himself. That makes the viewer sympathize with him and acquaints him/her about his "condition". And later we find out why the other storyline is important to the whole story..
So many positive things, why do I give this movie only a 7? The film is brilliant in it's plot, it's cinematography, it's directing, it's dialogues. But apart from Sammy Jenkins's story it didn't make me feel anything. The more I used my brain while watching it the less emotions I felt. There was no moral at the end. Hell, there wasn't even any kind of end (you'll see). The movie didn't make any emotional connection with me. The mystery and the story was interesting and complex, but apart from that, it didn't make me want to watch it again.
Still, this movie is well-written and mind-bending, and if you liked any of Nolan's movies, you'll probably like this one too, but it's not as receptible as "Inception" or the Batman movies for example. You have to pay attention to the main story and to the tiny info bits too to fully understand it. And it's obvious that they worked their *sses off till the premiere. And I respect the effort they put in this film. I recommend watching it at least once if you like complex stories or Nolan's works, or both.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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7

Meth-dudeAug 25, 2018

Despite it's non-linear story and rather unlikeable characters, Memento is a strong thriller that keeps the audience guessing. With great acting performances, an interesting story, good cinematography and a great, unpredictable ending, thisDespite it's non-linear story and rather unlikeable characters, Memento is a strong thriller that keeps the audience guessing. With great acting performances, an interesting story, good cinematography and a great, unpredictable ending, this is one of Nolan's best movies.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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7

BigZSep 2, 2014

Props to Nolan for being probably the only person able to make a movie based on a guy with short term memory loss that is...well...good. I was only five minutes into this one, not knowing what to expect at first, then it just hit me, uh oh,Props to Nolan for being probably the only person able to make a movie based on a guy with short term memory loss that is...well...good. I was only five minutes into this one, not knowing what to expect at first, then it just hit me, uh oh, this is a good movie and I need to focus so I don't miss something. You are just whipped all around with this film and left with a rarity in movies, you might actually feel stupid when its finished. Not because the movie was unstructured but quite the opposite. Its like slipping off a boat and watching it slowly float away and you're drowning and screaming for it to come back. You want to survive, you want to understand, you want to keep up. Never seen a movie like that before. A lot of times if I'm left guessing at the end of a movie I just say that was stupid and move on without thinking much on it. But with Memento, it ended and i was like NO! what just happened?! what did I miss?! Plagued me for sure like none other. Brilliant plot, rock solid acting. Its a mine field for your brain. Watch it. and then watch it again.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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7

Imma_135May 15, 2015

Memento is a very intense thriller where story telling creates an intrigue which would hook you and will not let you go until you find out what has happened. Nolan shows himself as an extremely capable director and some interesting shots andMemento is a very intense thriller where story telling creates an intrigue which would hook you and will not let you go until you find out what has happened. Nolan shows himself as an extremely capable director and some interesting shots and black and white moments make the picture stylistically complete and pleasant to watch. It gives off a vibe of the noir films.

However, the characters weren't interesting or easy to relate to because the audiences practically knows nothing about them. I do realise that it was necessary for the way the story is told to create an intrigue but as a viewer I didn't feel invested into the characters. The concept of the movie is its biggest problem. Nolan does a great job at making the most of it but the movie is interesting because of the intrigue and not because we care about what the hero is going to do next since we already know from the beginning. Also, I wasn't a big fan of the ending because it was a bit convoluted. The ending contained not a one but actually three plot twists and each of them would've been a nice and satisfying ending on its own but when all three are being utilised I felt like it was a bit too much.

In conclusion, the appeal of the movie is very clear and the intrigue is breathtaking. Even though the story telling damages the film a bit it is still a very compelling story executed by a competent director. I think, everyone has to see that film just for the amusing way the story is told.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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7

CasuallyFeb 6, 2017

Whilst inarguably gripping to the end, Memento hammers this puzzler home a bit too forcefully with excessive use of his character's disability. Skilfully produced and laced with moments of brilliance to keep the viewer guessing, Nolan hasWhilst inarguably gripping to the end, Memento hammers this puzzler home a bit too forcefully with excessive use of his character's disability. Skilfully produced and laced with moments of brilliance to keep the viewer guessing, Nolan has created a timeless enigma with a little too much headache.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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7

FilipeNetoJun 29, 2018

This was undoubtedly one of the most original and creative films I've ever seen. It's not a perfect movie, it's not great, but it's good. The whole story revolves around a man who has suffered a brain injury that makes impossible for him toThis was undoubtedly one of the most original and creative films I've ever seen. It's not a perfect movie, it's not great, but it's good. The whole story revolves around a man who has suffered a brain injury that makes impossible for him to keep long-term memory from that moment on. He is, however, committed to discovering and punishing a murderer, resorting to post-it notes, tattoos and Polaroid photographs, where he notes what he has discovered. Its an interesting concept, later revisited in "Before I go to Sleep", film that approaches a similar story. The way the narrative is constructed, with multiple linearity twists, helps to thicken the mystery and hold our attention but it can have the opposite effect on people who don't understand the film right from the start. And this happens because, from the middle, the movie loses rhythm and interest. The ending works well but it can really disappoint, just as it disappointed me. I did not want the ending to be the way it was. Guy Pearce is the protagonist and did a reasonable job, as well as the generality of the cast, but the film is not exactly a dramatic show for any actor. Its worth, essentially, by the original story that tells.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

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7

DawdlingPoetNov 23, 2021

This is an intriguing film. I liked the concept, although its hardly greatly original I suppose to have someone with a dodgy memory but the script is quite precise and I suppose it acts as a sort of low budget pre-cursor to Christopher NolansThis is an intriguing film. I liked the concept, although its hardly greatly original I suppose to have someone with a dodgy memory but the script is quite precise and I suppose it acts as a sort of low budget pre-cursor to Christopher Nolans later work, primarily Inception (although this film is about remembering/memorising short term memories rather than dreams).

This is definitely an example of a film that will likely get you thinking and one which may tempt you to re-watch it, to see if you can spot things you missed the first time and so on. I liked that some of the scenes are shown in black and white, giving it a sort of retro feel and a clinical sense to it.

Its a hard film to describe - I suppose its quirky. I would recommend it, yes.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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7

MrPajamasMar 7, 2021

Memento is one of the first films by the now legendary Christopher Nolan, who for me is the best director working today. His work is masterful and Memento is no exception, though for me it falls short of his more recent films. The story isMemento is one of the first films by the now legendary Christopher Nolan, who for me is the best director working today. His work is masterful and Memento is no exception, though for me it falls short of his more recent films. The story is great. Surprisingly I didn't get too lost in it and let me tell you, I get madly lost in the plot sometimes, but Nolan has managed to grasp it here and it all makes sense. The main minus of the film for me is that it's just not the feast for the eyes that we experience with new Nolan films. Don't look for breathtaking effects here. Overall, though, I think this is a good film that I can recommend.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

JJ2FAS4UDec 29, 2021

----------------------------------7.4/10-----------------------------------

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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6

thelordoffilmAug 13, 2010

Memento is not the first film by Christopher Nolan but itâ

0 of 10 users found this helpful010

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6

Toby023May 27, 2011

I normally love Christopher Nolan films but memento was the worst film he has made in my opinion. Instead of his usual brilliance I found memento to be mediocre. But I did like the way that all the characters were reviled to be connected andI normally love Christopher Nolan films but memento was the worst film he has made in my opinion. Instead of his usual brilliance I found memento to be mediocre. But I did like the way that all the characters were reviled to be connected and not as they seem at the end. This however does not make up for the fact that there is no attachment between the viewer and the characters by the end of the film leaving the viewer unsatisfied and thinking the story could have been made a much shorter length.… Expand

0 of 9 users found this helpful09

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6

RegOzApr 8, 2015

I truly think this movie is overrated. Probably because of its similarity with independent films, that are now being perceived -often rightfully- as intelligent, sophisticated, arty, and fashionable. The true is that, Memento is not a badI truly think this movie is overrated. Probably because of its similarity with independent films, that are now being perceived -often rightfully- as intelligent, sophisticated, arty, and fashionable. The true is that, Memento is not a bad movie but is not an excellent movie either. I believe that much of Memento's popularity, is due to its so-called complexity; yet, Memento is not complex, but convoluted and at times. That is precisely why it soon becomes redundant and monotonous. The script is original, and there are a few interesting twists, but the movie lacks substance and depth. Furthermore, as someone already mentioned, since the characters are not well developed, they feel lifeless and emotionless, so we never connect wit them. Memento's style is similar to that of The Machinist's, but while in The Machinist there are many sub-plots that draw the attention to both inner and outer conflicts, in Memento the plot is basic and there is nothing really thrilling on it apart from a medical condition. I believe Momento is a movie that many seek to enjoy mainly because of its uniqueness, but when carefully analysed, Memento reveals many flaws on its core. Originality is not enough to build an insightful, touching, intelligent, and well elaborated argument with a powerful message, but Memento is shallow; that is precisely why Memento is not brilliant but just slightly above average in its uniqueness.… Expand

0 of 10 users found this helpful010

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6

beingryanjudeAug 28, 2014

Memento is an overly fractured, complex thriller. Nolan gives, what he believes, enough evidence to the audience to allow us to create our own interpretation of the happenings.

0 of 8 users found this helpful08

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6

borderlinefilmsFeb 5, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. fleeting and corruptible

I remember thinking it was brilliant but had to be sure. I watched it again to study the gimmick. And again in an effort to make sense out of the story. It was rather dense and more complicated than it needed to be, like all Nolan's stuff. But it wasn't as messy and convoluted as Insomnia and his TDK trilogy, or as intellectually pretentious as The Prestige and Inception. Like all his subsequent movies, it was cluttered with unnecessary garbage (the interspersed black and white filler scenes of the protagonist going stir-crazy in the motel room).
It wasn't a gratuitous gimmick. The reverse sequencing left the viewer as memory-challenged as the protagonist. Afterwards, it prompts us to question the reliability of our own memories. And to wonder. Who are we without our memories? The fragmented, backsliding narrative was a perfectly suitable technique for the story and characters at hand. Nolan was a young, prodigious filmmaker with a great future ahead of him (or was it behind him?).
Now, looking back after watching everything else this overpraised and overvalued director has made, I believe the reverse sequencing in Memento came as an afterthought. An idea devised in the editing room after it was shot. A decision made after a disappointing first cut, as a way to inject more mystery and confusion into an unexceptional crime thriller. A fortuitous and tricky gimmick that launched a career.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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6

All_ButTrU4Oct 9, 2022

It's unique premise and ambitious direction make it admirable but it doesn't become impressive or intriguing beyond it's dizzying premise

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

AgentLviJul 7, 2023

not bad movie, but not good either. The story is really miss & match, visual is decent, and the voice is also decent

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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5

SpangleMar 30, 2014

I used to hate this film, but after watching it again, that changed. Initially, I hated because of the way the story was told. While it is still aggravating to me the way the story progresses then jumps back and it really hinders my enjoymentI used to hate this film, but after watching it again, that changed. Initially, I hated because of the way the story was told. While it is still aggravating to me the way the story progresses then jumps back and it really hinders my enjoyment of the film, I appreciate it a lot more. Memento is brilliantly made by Christopher Nolan and Guy Pearce is great in the lead role. As we go back in time further and further, more of the picture becomes clear and it leads to many questions about who Leonard Shelby truly is and what actually went down. This really shows how memories can deceive you and, heck, even your own perceptions can deceive you

On the negative side, again, the way the story is told is aggravating. While I understand the purpose and am fine with backtracking, the aggravating part is when we backtrack and then it leads to something we already saw before. It just feels repetitive and overall, while it no longer kills it for me, it is still a major knock I have against this one.… Expand

0 of 10 users found this helpful010

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5

adamSv94Feb 25, 2013

Just like "The Prestige", Christopher Nolan's "Memento" offers a very satisfying and unpredictable ending but the problem with "Memento" is that we have to watch about 90 minutes of nonsense in order to reach the last 20 minutes. This movieJust like "The Prestige", Christopher Nolan's "Memento" offers a very satisfying and unpredictable ending but the problem with "Memento" is that we have to watch about 90 minutes of nonsense in order to reach the last 20 minutes. This movie was a complete drag and a disappoinment after having heard so much good about it.… Expand

1 of 9 users found this helpful18

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5

ExKingMay 25, 2013

Christopher Nolan is my all time favorite director i enjoy all his movies i enjoy the fact that his movies are anything other than linear because it's make you think about it and connect the scenes together and make more sense if you watchChristopher Nolan is my all time favorite director i enjoy all his movies i enjoy the fact that his movies are anything other than linear because it's make you think about it and connect the scenes together and make more sense if you watch the movie again,
however i think that Nolan took it too far with this one cause in order for a Christopher Nolan movie to be great you have to enjoy each and every scene and have no idea what's next THAT'S ALL NOLAN MOVIES
but with Memento the curiosity is not about the next scene it's about when the movie ends and that's sad because when the level of mystery is 100% and everything don't make any sense you kinda loss interests in the movie and i know some people are impressed by the end because there is no end
but i find it a waste of 2 hours movie and yeah i didn't find Guy Pearce as a good actor in this one.
after all that being said i don't think the movie is bad i just didn't like it.… Expand

0 of 10 users found this helpful010

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5

CameraBounceGodFeb 23, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. ...i know this hurts but i give it a mixed.i love watching guy pierce for some reason, don't know what kind of guy that makes me..other than a good ending and Cypher and Trinity all i have to say is that i love how trinity and pierce are the same for surreal reasons .I want everyone to know how once again I didn't sit through it at all....still its nice to think of a cool looking guy who has trouble remembering routinely and has a system for it......reminds me almost of seeing the future.....-JRA… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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4

SEROJApr 23, 2015

Personal opinion... overrated! Im a huge fan of Chris Nolan but i think Memento really had its flaws and was diffenitely not a full 10... my PERSONAL score for it is 4/10 and i don't think you're going to hate it.. its just my personal score

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

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3

HotelCentralFeb 22, 2016

It's usually a bad sign when I'm an hour into a film and I still don't give a darn about the characters, the story, or whether I ever wait around long enough to see how the film ends, and that's where I turned off Memento.

I'm afraid thatIt's usually a bad sign when I'm an hour into a film and I still don't give a darn about the characters, the story, or whether I ever wait around long enough to see how the film ends, and that's where I turned off Memento.

I'm afraid that the Baltimore Sun has it right: "The dramatic content in Memento is as blank as Leonard's post-traumatic mental state."

I mean, if the guy gets into a conversation that runs on too long he forgets how it started, and why, and who exactly it is that he's talking to. So how does someone with this much of a challenge remain determined to get revenge on the guy who killed his wife? He can't even remember that he's out to take revenge. And, OK, I've read here and there that some earth-shaking twist awaits me further ahead, but I'm not going to sit around for another half hour waiting for the real "shocker" to arrive.

Thanks, but I'll read the spoilers.… Expand

0 of 7 users found this helpful07

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0

NazguleroNov 29, 2010

I now know what is wrong with Christopher Nolan movies. The characters are lifeless. They are not real people. There is no vulnerability, no character development, the dialogue is static and robotic. No real person speaks like that. I can seeI now know what is wrong with Christopher Nolan movies. The characters are lifeless. They are not real people. There is no vulnerability, no character development, the dialogue is static and robotic. No real person speaks like that. I can see the intention to create depths in the characters, but this is clearly not the way to do it. This movie is just nauseating to watch. From minute one, you see that the main character's hair is dyed...you wonder why that is. The way everyone looks is always...too deep, unreal, like they are on drugs, not connected to the real world.… Expand

3 of 116 users found this helpful3113

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Memento

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