Memento - A Movie Review

Memories can be distorted - they change the shape of the world.

Released to theaters in 2000, Memento is about a man with short-term memory loss. Leonard is not stopping until his wife’s murder case is solved. Though it is difficult, Lenny meets significant people. Can they help him is the question?

Memento is not meant to be watched once. It’s confusing until you understand the direction. My favorite part about films is how they test your mind. Memento divulges into a well-directed story, propelling that our minds can solve any case.

Guy Pierce does an extraordinary job divulging into the befuddled mindset of Leonard. Despite his handicap, Leonard does not let his short-term memory get in the way of solving his wife’s murder. Pierce had excellent narration, finding strength. He even had notable improv skills which I was surprised to learn about. Leonard refused to let his disability win.

For a complicated story like this, the cast dug deep into the story. That’s what sells the film. Joe Pantoliano has become one of my new favorite character actors. He can do a superb range. His interactions with Leonard are very well-acted.

Due to the structure in which the film was shot, it’s up to you on who you trust. Credits include Carrie-Anne Moss, Mark Boone Junior, Russ Gega, Jorja Fox, and a memorable appearance by Stephen Tobolowsky. Based on an amnesia experience of his own, Toblowsky connected to his role. Every interaction that Leonard has is integral to their behavior.

Disability is a huge theme in Memento. Don’t make fun of someone’s handicap. Nobody ever knows what anybody else is going through. Leonard proves to audiences that no matter the difficulties, you can achieve anything.

I love everything that Leonard does to never lose touch with reality, taking constant notes, remembering things in unique ways. Despite having to explain to people about his memory problems multiple times, he has accepted it.

Christopher Nolan focused highly on his direction. It may take a few watches, but based on the editing, Memento would not be what it is if it was told in the usual format. This film is completely different viewed from beginning to end.

Nolan helped viewers feel the confusion of Leonard’s world following his mind closely. There are many subtle details that you miss on the first watch. If you notice, the camera is closer to Leonard whenever he is talking with someone. This effect was a remarkable decision because we could get a better idea of Leonard’s mind.

Nolan also hit the right comedic touches. You never know where the film is going to go next. The bits of comedy added realism. Leonard is not perfect, showcasing how difficult it is to work with his disability. I got a kick out of scenes that took place at the motel, especially with the hotel clerk.

Shoutout goes to the editors. The editors deserve all the recognition for establishing a film that is mindboggling, yet makes total sense. The cinematography also hit a high mark, detailing important scenes in black and white.

Why isn’t Memento talked about more? Is it because viewers give up on it too soon? Memento associates willpower, to motivate viewers with similar memory problems to keep fighting. That’s a theme that should be discussed more in the film world.

If you’re looking for a new psychological thriller, I recommend Memento. Do not look up any information about it beforehand. It will only ruin the experience. View it with fresh eyes. And you should watch it a second time to see what elements you missed out on.