Movie Review: Remember (2015)
Remember, directed by Atom Egoyan, is a compelling thriller that intricately weaves themes of memory, revenge, and the lingering shadows of the Holocaust. The film stars Christopher Plummer as Zev Gutman, an elderly man suffering from dementia who is on a mission to find and kill the Nazi guard responsible for the death of his family at Auschwitz.
Plot Summary
The narrative begins with Zev, a recent widower living in a nursing home, who is reminded of his purpose through a letter from his friend Max Rosenbaum (Martin Landau). Max, who is also a Holocaust survivor, has meticulously planned this mission, providing Zev with detailed instructions to locate the Nazi guard, now living under the alias Rudy Kurlander.
Zev’s journey is fraught with tension and uncertainty, amplified by his deteriorating memory. As he travels across the United States, Zev encounters various individuals, each interaction bringing him closer to his goal while highlighting his vulnerability and determination. The plot builds towards a climactic revelation that not only redefines Zev’s quest but also challenges the audience’s perception of justice and memory.
Performance and Direction
Christopher Plummer delivers a poignant performance, capturing the frailty and resolve of his character with remarkable depth. His portrayal of Zev’s confusion and single-minded focus is both heartbreaking and compelling, making the audience empathize with his tragic plight. Martin Landau’s Max is a critical anchor in the story, providing the motivation and support that Zev needs to pursue his mission.
Atom Egoyan’s direction is meticulous, creating an atmosphere of suspense and introspection. The film’s pace is deliberate, reflecting Zev’s slow unraveling of his past and the truth. Egoyan’s use of cinematography and sound design enhances the emotional weight of Zev’s journey, immersing the viewer in his fragmented reality.
Themes and Analysis
Remember explores the complexities of memory and the ethical dimensions of revenge. Zev’s dementia serves as a powerful metaphor for the fading collective memory of the Holocaust, raising questions about the responsibility to remember and the consequences of forgetting. The film also delves into the moral ambiguities of seeking vengeance, especially when the lines between victim and perpetrator become blurred.
The twist ending is a hallmark of Egoyan’s storytelling, adding a layer of complexity that forces the audience to re-evaluate everything that preceded it. This narrative choice not only shocks but also deepens the film’s thematic resonance, making it a thought-provoking piece on the nature of justice and identity.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised Remember for its ambitious storytelling and Plummer’s standout performance. However, some have noted that the film’s heavy-handed dialogue and occasional plot contrivances detract from its overall impact. Despite these criticisms, the film has been lauded for its emotional depth and the provocative questions it raises about history and memory.
Streaming Services
Remember is available for streaming on various platforms. In the United States, it can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. It is also available for streaming on subscription services like Netflix and Hulu.
Conclusion
Remember is a gripping thriller that combines powerful performances with a deeply emotional narrative. It challenges viewers to reflect on the lasting impact of trauma and the moral complexities of revenge. While it may not be perfect, its strengths lie in its ability to provoke thought and engage the audience on a profound level.
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