Inception

Released July 16, 2010
Directed (and written by) Christopher Nolan
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Marion Cotillard, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ken Watanabe, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Michael Caine

First Viewing: July 17, 2010
Roger (and Jolly) - 4.5/5 stars
First things first. Inception, while many things, is first and foremost a movie that invites discussion (and inevitably, disagreement). Since seeing it a few weeks ago, I’ve talked about the movie with many people. People who hated it, people who loved it, people who didn’t get it, people who completely understood it, and I’ve heard enough different theories to make me wish I hadn’t so much looked in the direction of the screen, my head was spinning so wildly.
Instead of going into detail, or outlining the plot, (because the details are what people are arguing about) I’m going to outline my main impressions. It's also a movie, I think, that is best to go into without knowing too much about the plot. (Plus, it would be way too much to write about).
1. This movie will make you think. While you’re watching it, after the credits role, and afterwards. You’ll think it over, and come to some instantaneous reactions. Then you’ll talk to somebody else about it, and your reaction will change.
2. It’s a beautiful movie to immerse yourself in. I’ve since thought of more than a few holes in the plot, but don’t go in that direction. Remember this; you’re watching a movie that takes place in an alternate reality, where dreams are invaded and abused, and the logic of dreams is shaky enough as it is. So just immerse yourself in the fantastic visuals, use the character of Ariadne (Page) to help guide you through the events, pay attention, and enjoy. Here is a movie that captures your mind as well as your imagination.
3. The movie is well done, and I was fully invested in the story. But Inception, no matter how brilliant, is lacking a few things. It is so suspended in the darkness of dreams that it feels a little cold. There is raw emotion between Cobb (DiCaprio) and his wife (Cotillard), but the rest of the characters feel strangely flat. (I know, I know, I’ve heard the theory that they’re just part of Cobb’s dream, and that’s why they’re flat, alright?)
Some people have mentioned they found it confusing. I agree, but you’ll be able to get the basic plot and idea, no problem. Like I said, it’s the details that cause issues. The cast is stellar, and you will be totally and completely drawn in. The ending is epic.

The point of Inception is that it is much like a dream. It’s visually stunning, both confusing and crystal-clear, and there are universal rules and guidelines (that can always be broken). You have no choice but to be gripped completely by it; to surrender your control. However, just like a dream, the more you try to make sense of it, the more confused and muddled it becomes (or the clearer it becomes!). People point out what they think you should know, and your perception (and the purity of the dream) becomes skewed. Holes begin to form in your memory, and you begin to question the whole thing.
Inception is excellent, not because of the movie itself, but because of what your reaction will be. When asked to clarify the film’s plot and ultimate meaning, Christopher Nolan made it clear that the movie is “completely open to individual interpretation.” Meaning, there is no right answer. No black and white, defining way to look at this. Now go see it, enjoy it, and then talk about it. But remember, it’s only a dream.