love the depth of this film. It's poetry with a story, told freshly, and revealed through genuine characters that I could believe in. Despite any budgetary limitations the film holds up, and is presented beautifully in its DVD release.
This is one of the few films out there that makes you really think. Some of the elements I found very mystical, and symbolic. But somehow James' heady observations still feel grounded, and despite his very reclusive nature, James quickly becomes relateable. Sure there are moments, like in any first-time director's overzealous efforts, that come off pretentious. But these can be overlooked because it's clear the director wanted to give his audience something new, something fresh. Plus I did find some of the retro allusions very entertaining.
Be warned, this is not your regular crowd pleaser, Hollywood, blockbuster flick. It is a serious piece of cinema, even if it sometimes felt that the budget held Sorokorensky back from accomplishing his vision. I loved the visual style even in its the raw, yet somehow polished and deliberate, guerrilla form. I wish more independent filmmakers would use their time, and limited budgets, to produce something meaningful, not just another slasher, vampire, zombie, horror flick. How many times can we see a half-naked girl be chased by a killer?
The director did a superb job of staying on point while navigating through what may seem like random events in James' daily routine. You'll connect the dots in the end and appreciate the wait. Do yourself a favor and allay your A.D.D. Don't stop watching/ Believe me things are building, the end is worth it... and it all will be worth discussing. (I debated this film with my husband for days after the end credits rolled.)
In the end, I feel we get the answer to the key question posed (implied in the opening quote for the film) if James will make himself worthy of his sufferings. And now, I am thinking, are we worthy of ours?
