Mr. Martin and Memento, Part 2

I think the ideas expressed in the papers written were articulate and brought out some points worthy of discussion. It was interesting to read how everyone came about interpreting the movie. Explanations differed, but we all generally agreed on a few key points (the sequence of events were told in reverse/flashbacks; many, if not all, characters were deceitful and corrupt).

One paper cited specific literary terms to describe the actions of the film; it clearly broke down the film into "exposition/rising action/climax/resolution." I appreciated the breakdown of the plot, as my memory (like the film's protagonist) isn't always so reliable.

Another paper commented on Memento's unconventional way of storytelling. I myself can not think of any other movies (aside from Tarantino films) that follow a "don't start at the beginning" structure. However, I do see Nolan's movie taking some of his cues from classic film noir genre (bleak and sometimes corrupt protagonist who is alienated from society, femme fatales, avant-garde cinematography...the works).

Another paper questioned whether tiny aspects within the film were a deeper reflection of the (often negative) times the world finds itself in today. The Polaroid snapshots, the tattoos…these features obviously date the film as “modern,” but do they also comment on the impulsiveness of society?

Interesting reads indeed!