Classic Review: Inception (2010)

After a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films in the mid to late 2000’s, Christopher Nolan cemented himself as one of the most prolific filmmakers of all time with the release of 2008’s The Dark Knight. It was a groundbreaking film that absolutely blew audiences and critics away with its inventive, complex and gritty portrayal of the Batman universe, broadening the scope of what a blockbuster could be. Very few films have seen immediate unanimous praise on the level that the Dark Knight received. It was clear from the instant it was released that it was destined to become a classic. Due to its success, everyone was eagerly anticipating Nolan’s next project, which put an incredible amount of pressure on the filmmaker. Very few filmmakers have the skill to be able to craft a film that reached the astronomically high bar that had been set. However, Nolan was able to somehow surpass expectations with his mind-bending science-fiction epic Inception.

Dreaming is a fascinating and complex concept that everyone has experience with and one that lends itself well to be explored through the medium of film. That being said, very few filmmakers have explored the concept of dreams in depth as it requires a certain level of psychological insight. It’s clear that Nolan is fascinated with dreams and the way in which they work, as he explores every facet of the concept in an intelligent and imaginative fashion. Inception tells the story of Dom Cobb (DiCaprio), a thief with the capability to enter the dreams of others and steal their ideas. However, this method of espionage becomes increasingly more dangerous. When Cobb loses everything he cares about, he’s forced to embark on one last extremely risky mission that involves planting an idea inside of someone’s head, rather than stealing ideas. Cobb forms a team of specialists to carry out the mission, but it proves to be more of a challenge than he initially excepted when a powerful enemy is hired to stop them from completing the mission. 

As groundbreaking and exhilarating as The Dark Knight may have been, Inception is Nolan’s magnum opus. It’s an imaginative, intelligent and deeply complex film that challenged audiences from a psychological perspective in a way that very few mainstream films have attempted, while maintaining all the elements that you would expect from a summer blockbuster. It’s seeping with originality that requires multiple viewings to fully grasp the complex themes Nolan explores, as well as the absolutely massive world he crafted. 

While Nolan’s direction is the clear the star of the show, Inception‘s performances are absolutely worth mentioning and the film even more captivating to watch. Nolan assembles a legendary ensemble including many a-listers such as DiCaprio, Page, Gordon-Levitt, Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard and Michael Caine. While it may not boast many awards caliber performances, the cast members share impeccable chemistry and they are each perfectly cast in their individual roles. DiCaprio in particular delivers one of his most charismatic and layered performances to date.

There are very few films that are as technically entrancing as this one. Shot by longtime collaborator and legendary DP Wally Pfister, Inception is a gorgeous film from a visual perspective that operates on an absolutely massive scope. Every single frame is stunning and captures a sense of wonder, especially the scenes that were shot on-location. The production design in particular is an incredible cinematic achievement and perfectly brings Nolan’s vision to life. The visuals are even more impressive when paired with Hans Zimmer’s hauntingly beautiful musical score, which helps to heighten the film’s emotional resonance. 

Ten years following its release, Inception has become a certified classic worthy to join the ranks of 2001: A Space Odyssey, E.T. and Blade Runner as one of the most iconic and celebrated science-fiction films of all time. It is an absolutely incredible film sure to stand the test of time thanks to its engaging story, imaginative world building, exploration of complex themes and stunning visuals.

still courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

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Tristan French