digs5446

[SPOILER ALERT: This review contains spoilers.]

I enjoyed the hell out of this. It was fascinating thinking about the difference in sheer scope and technical brilliance compared with the first. Is there tacky dialog and quips galore? Sure, same with the original. I mean this is Roland Emmerich we're talking about. The film looks absolutely gorgeous with the cool neon blue everywhere. Thought the queen battle scene at the end in the desert was sweet. Look forward to diving into the commentary and docs on the Blu-ray.

Talk about under the radar, I don't even remember this being marketed during its release and I love these kinds of movies. I understand most peoples' criticism of the "flatness" of the script and underdeveloped characters, and that the only real strength is the sumptuous cinematography and general atmosphere. But see, those last two things can be enough to reel me in sufficiently to forgive (or not even notice) those perceived shortcomings. I simply adore movies shot on film in the wide aspect ratio that are almost monochrome and take place in a gritty urban locale. It's that level of polish where the visuals and the score just put me right in my happy place. I also thought it was a great cast and the acting was solid all around. There may not have been enough twists and turns for most folks, and the ending did seem a bit curt, but overall I am a huge fan and think it's a pity that Janusz Kamiński didn't direct more after this. Super bummed to see this hasn't received a Blu-Ray release anywhere in the world, but at least the available HD streaming transfer is super nice. While the audio is only Dolby 2.0 stereo, my receiver made it sound damn fine with its simulated 5.1 effect.

Really impressive debut feature from a promising Canadian director. At times uncomfortable to sit through but that's kind of the point. This isn't escapism, this is an unflinching look into the lives of two addict lovers moving in different directions at different speeds. With minimal dialog, the camera lingers closely to catch every bit of acne, crooked and rotting teeth, soulless stare, and pained expressions caught between shame and despair...really great cinematography.