2. By contrast, Jimmy has finally seen Donnie Darko and is trying to work out if it actually made any sense, or just looked really cool. Anyone game to give us a summary of what it's trying to say?
3. As for me, well, like Darren I saw "Pan's Labyrinth" recently. Now that is an incredible film. It doesn't really fit into the usual categories - as it has elements of a violent drama set in the Spanish Civil War, a very powerful statement on the role of mythology and story, a fantasy adventure and a commentary on the current western political situation . That's quite a mix. Which is the beauty of the film. It tells a strong narrative that allows you to be drawn into the story, which you know is an important story to hear, but it is one that allows you to draw your own meanings and conclusion from it.
Which is sort of the point to this rambling post. There's no doubt that there are times for a story that is fast, colourful and fun - think Indiana Jones, Miami Vice, The Holiday or Sahara. A 1-2 hour jaunt where you are pleasantly distracted, your adrenaline is running and the dilemma's are generally overcome neatly by the end of the film (except where a sequel is subtly pointed towards).
But for me, the stories that linger and play out in my mind are the ones that don't fit all the categories. The stories that are intentionally ambiguous enough to make me wonder. What was Donnie Darko about? I'm not really too sure - but it makes me feel that sense of adolescent dislocation and disturbance. Pan's Labyrinth? Questions of family, loyalty and the power of myths. But only in the hints and questions behind the story.
Stories that create mystery and unsettle me are the ones that actually ask me a question and change me. This divine dissatisfaction is why I believe story, myth, narrative - even movies are some of the most powerful tools that exist. Which are the stories that most drive us and shape us?
2 comments:
Doesn't it annoy you that the two bloggers for SMH, Sam and Sam, never actually answer the questions that they pose on the main website that you want to know that answer to?
Sure, Sam de Brito is a clever writer, but why do you read this blog? Not that you shouldn't, but what are your motivations? Trying to learn some tips to impress your lady friend?
I'm not having a go... hell, that's why I read it!
As you'd know, I'm more often moved by those films that are subtle, have strong narratives etc, films that aren't your pure entertainment (though they have an important place).
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