Following

Greetings fellow movie goers from around the world. I made it to my 900th post. Thank you for supporting my blog. I’ll continue to write more articles. This one’s a special review on my my idol and favorite filmmaker, Christopher “Chris” Nolan. I won’t go into full detail. So, here’s a brief story.

Fresh from earning a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature, Chris found out his home was robbed. This inspired him to a write a script about an aspiring writer who follows people around, meets a thief and becomes one in order to create material. The Premise I’m referring to is none other than “Following.” With support from his wife Emma, parents and friends, they provided help to make his filmmaking career come true.

Released in 1998, (same year Darren Aronofsky’s Pi came out) Following received positive reviews from critics. The Criterion Collection included the film as spine number 638. Chris’ highly anticipated “Oppenheimer” starring Cillian Murphy will be released on July 21st. Two days before my 30 birthday. Before it comes out, I wanna share my thoughts on Following.

This review contains no crucial SPOILERS. Feel free to read my non-spoiler article.

Smart & Dumb Qualities

Smart: Christopher “Chris” Nolan did an excellent job directing. He also wrote, shot, edited and co-produced his first film.

Chris’ wife Emma Thomas co-produced the film.

Jeremy Theobald did a great job for his performance as The Writer.

Cinematography is shot in black and white. It suits a neo-noir tone.

Pacing didn’t feel fast or slow. I was intrigued from the beginning.

Because of a tight budget and scheduling conflicts, a majority of scenes were shot in one take. Basically, Chris’ “El Mariachi.” Robert Rodriguez’ directorial debut was also shot on a very low budget.

A thief’s named, Cobb. Twelve Years Later, Leonardo DiCaprio played another Cobb from “Inception.”

Story’s told in a non-linear structure. Chris’ known for his thought-provoking stories. Makes you wanna solve a jigsaw puzzle putting the pieces together.

At the 0:23:16 mark, there’s a Batman logo on a door. Chris eventually directed the best (if not the best) trilogy of all time. “The Dark Knight Trilogy.” To quote a line from “Highlander.” “There can only be one.”

The Young Man comes up with a fake name, Daniel Lloyd. A reference to a former child actor named, Danny Lloyd. Known for playing Danny Torrence from Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining.” Chris stated Kubrick is one of his main influences.

If you have a keen eye, The Writer has a few posters of “Reservoir Dogs,” “Sunset Boulevard” & Marilyn Monroe.

Again, the budget was tight. Some scenes were shot at Chris’ parents house. his mom and dad were very supportive.

Primary Themes are Obsession & Paranoia. Each one’s handled carefully.

One of Chris’ signature traits is the element of Blackmail.

A Plot Twist changes everything.

If you own a DVD/Blu-Ray copy from The Criterion Collection, Chris provides audio commentary reflecting his process on making the film.

Dumb: Running time is approximately 70 minutes. Could’ve added some additional scenes. Learn about The Writer’s personal life besides writing.

The Final Verdict: A-

Following is a near-perfect independent film. If you’re a Christopher Nolan fan or a Criterion loyalist, grab a copy online or at nearest Barnes & Noble. I cannot wait for Oppenheimer to come out. It’s gonna be an epic birthday present.