Here's a strange little film. It's so strange, I don't know if I really like it, or completely hate it.

Memento is a whodunit movie whose scenes are presented in reverse order. Presumably this is because the central character has no short-term memory. Since he can't remember what happened, the editor is going to make damned sure we don't either. This really works because you're always on the edge of your seat wondering what is going on. To be sure, the film should be nominated for all the editing awards.

The trouble is the end of the picture, which in fact is the real beginning of the story. The character for whom we have had great empathy now conscientiously makes an immoral decision. He betrays us, and we no longer want anything to do with him. It turns out there are no moral characters in the film at all.

In fact, if the story hadn't been presented in reverse order I would have given the film my lowest rating. So I'll split the difference and give the picture a middle of the road rating. The editing pulls this film out of the dirt.

This is a dark picture. If you don't like dark films, stay away. Otherwise, if you would like to see some original editing, and a very bent collection of characters, this might be for you.

Jammed Pipe!

Film Facts

Cast
• Guy Pearce
• Carrie-Anne Moss
• Joe Pantoliano
• Mark Boone Junior
• Stephen Tobolowsky
• Jorja Fox
• Harriet Sansom Harris
• Callum Keith Rennie
• Larry Holden
• Russ Fega
• Thomas Lennon
• Kimberly Campbell
• Marianne Muellerleile

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Released in 2000

MPAA Rating: R

Reviewed by Mongo