Inception

Ok, so I went to see Inception the other day – you know, the film that’s been getting pretty much all round amazing reviews and and has been described as “like The Matrix mated with Synecdoche, New York — or a Charlie Kaufman 007”. I think it’s safe to say the critics like it.

And, if I’m honest, I can’t help but agree with them. Obviously, as with most films, it had its flaws (the continuously prominent, and somewhat overbearing, brass section that made up the soundtrack being one point). I mean, I hate to agree with people, but I loved it. It was on of those films that you can walk out of feeling all high-and-mighty because you’ve gotten in touch with your ‘inner philosopher’. And due to my horrendously large ego, I love my inner philosopher. There’s something so satisfying about a film that makes you feel as though you’ve actually gained some sort of insight into the working of the world, no matter how untenable said insight may be.

The details of the film were it’s greatest strength and it’s most textbook weakness. The fact that there were so many vital points thrown in as nonchalantly as a you like makes the film a difficulty for those who find a trip to the cinema as a chance to not have to think. The fact that the film requires strict concentration throughout paired with the - in my opinion, all too frequent - car chases, explosions and fight scenes, makes it a struggle to understand quite what is wanted of yourself as an audience member before the credits roll.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’ve said I loved the film, but I think that the psychological depth to it could have been further explored. Leonardo DiCaprio plays his part superbly and alongside Marion Cotillard, it’s impossible for anyone to not feel the pain and confusion along with them. The constant fighting took away from this and wasn’t needed. Large action scenes tend to drive viewers into a state of half-watching where they’re observing the action, but not processing the happenings and throwing twists into the middle of these brought on a whole new level (no pun intended) to the term ‘juxtaposition’. One that can become a little too much at points.

Overall, however, despite my mocking and critique, I know for a fact I will most definitely be watching Inception again and enjoying it as much, if not more, than the first time around. Christopher Nolan is the very essence of creativity and the way he binds together the science fiction with the thriller creates two hours and twenty-eight minutes of excitement, suspense, and more than anything, a dream-like escape from reality.