Film Review #48 - Tenet (2020)


Tenet (2020) is a film by Christopher Nolan that stands out as an extraordinarily creative and thrilling action sci-fi film that I’ve ever seen. Experiencing this film in 70mm was a revelation; its sound, particularly loud for a 70mm screening, added a delightful vintage analogue vibe. 

Music: Ludwig Göransson's score is nothing short of AMAZING. His work, which also includes compositions for the further film Oppenheimer (2023) movie, is breathtakingly creative. The tracks meld seamlessly with the film’s narrative, underpinning its dynamic vibe. In my opinion, Göransson proves himself a musical genius. His sound design is simply top-notch.

Story: The script is a mind-bending journey, filled with thought-provoking dialogues. Each line adds depth and clarity to the unfolding mission, making no word superfluous.The accents of the actors, however, were at times challenging to discern and the dialogues were very important to hear the complex story. This is a film that demands a second viewing, given its visual and script complexity.

Cinematography and Visual Storytelling: The film’s visual storytelling is equally thought-provoking, reminiscent of a James Bond movie, undoubtedly inspired by Nolan’s vision. The opening chase scenes expertly set the film’s tone. Nolan's commitment to realism - eschewing CGI and green screens for genuine reactions, real explosions, and stunning locations - is evident and commendable.

Hoyte van Hoytema’s cinematography is visually captivating, particularly his use of medium close-up shots, and slow and gradual zoom-ins. The plane scene, captured entirely on camera, is mind-blowing. The firetruck scene is a standout, with its impressive cinematic shots and carefully crafted vehicle mount close-ups. The stunts, with their use of martial arts and wall climbing techniques, enhance the film's visceral appeal.

Conclusion: Overall, this film was a pure enjoyment to watch. It is a cinematic masterpiece, a delight in every aspect - from cinematography and character development to writing, production, and action sequences. Nolan's use of vehicle mount shots in 'Interstellar' and 'Dunkirk' brings a distinctive touch. Yet, before you watch the movie, read or watch a spoiler free video about time inversion, because this movie is confusing for a casual viewing due to this concept. Nonetheless, Tenet is an artwork in its own right.

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