Upstream Color
Dir: Shane Carruth
2013
*****
Upstream Color is an idea. The idea serves to solve no purpose other than to simply be an idea. Shane Carruth's idea. It's impossible for me not to address the backlash he and Upstream Color received on release, the argument that nothing happened is nonsense (everything happened) and that it is boring is unfair. The film is unlimited in what it has to offer, it's okay not to be interested in something but if you find nothing for you in this film that is of interest I would argue that you are the limited one. To be fair though, don't watch it tired. Watch it while fresh. I'm quite passionate about this one as it's not often that cinema is this original. I do not believe Carruth is trying to alienate anyone or to be a smarty pants, he is simply developing a new way of thinking and a refreshing new way of telling a story. The thought process is intelligent and bizarre but it does highlight many aspects of our lives that are just as strange that we regard as perfectly normal. The scenes whereby the characters start to realise what is happening to them are awesome. The film seems to capture elements from every genre and yet be without genre, making it truly original. The cinematography is spectacular and almost seems like a bonus. It's a joy from beginning to end, I felt spoiled after watching it even though I've been waiting for something this fresh and unique to come out for ages.