By EWAN McDONALD
(Herald rating: * * * * )
Leonard (Guy Pearce) witnessed his wife's violent death and is determined to avenge her. But he has had short-term memory loss ever since and has to make notes about everything — he even has memos tattooed on his body.
While Leonard keeps forgetting
what has already happened, the viewer works from the other end of the story: beginning at the end and working back to the beginning, because the story is told backward.
Confused? You're meant to be, as Leonard makes maps, jots down notes and explains over and over that he has to talk fast because in a few minutes he'll start forgetting the discussion.
Dropping in and out of his story are Natalie (Carrie-Anne Moss) and Teddy (Joe Pantoliano). Leonard has a photo of Natalie and a note saying that she has also lost someone and will help him. Teddy is a more mysterious character with even more fuzzy motives. Compelling and absorbing.
Running time: 113 mins
Rental: Today
