Southland Tales – 12/6/07 – Viewed on the BIG screen
“Warning: you are entering a domain of chaos” is one of the taglines and it couldn’t be truer. This movie was panned by critics and I can understand why. It’s not funny enough to be a comedy, it’s not gripping enough to be a thriller, it’s not emotional enough to be a drama and the lack of a cohesive story makes it hard to follow. Despite these misgivings, I was intrigued, laughed and rather enjoyed the movie. Southland Tales is the second movie written and directed by Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko) and like its predecessor it is destined to become a cult classic and a box office failure. While the setting, characters and context are completely different from Donnie Darko there are many similarities in terms of the premise, ambiguous plot and directing style.  The genre-bending film (intended as a satire) is a surreal experience enhanced by an ethereal narrative and a fitting soundtrack. Trying to comprehend everything that is thrown at you is impossible but giving into the barrage of information and going along for the ride is a unique experience. Kelly’s trademarks are also taking shape, including eyes pierced by bullets and long fluid shots accompanied by a full length song (this time its BRMC’s “Howl”). I eagerly await Kelly’s future efforts.