9. Memento
“Memento” is a 2000 American neo-noir psychological thriller written and directed by Christopher Nolan, based on the short story “Memento Mori” by his brother Jonathan Nolan, which was published in 2001.
The film tells the story of Leonard Shelby (portrayed by Guy Pearce), a man suffering from anterograde amnesia—a condition that impairs his ability to form new memories, causing severe short-term memory loss. To navigate his life and track down the person responsible for his condition, Leonard relies on an intricate system of Polaroid photographs, handwritten notes, and tattoos etched onto his body.
What sets “Memento” apart is its non-linear narrative structure. The story unfolds through two alternating sequences: black-and-white scenes that progress in chronological order, and color scenes presented in reverse chronological order. This innovative storytelling technique immerses the audience in Leonard’s fragmented perception of reality. The two sequences intersect at the film’s climax, culminating in a complete and cohesive narrative that unveils the full scope of Leonard’s quest.
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