“Mulholland Drive” is a surrealist-styled neo-noir psychological thriller. In layman’s terms, it’s weird. But what would you expect? The 2001 picture was written and directed by David Lynch – the same filmmaker who brought us “Eraserhead” and “Twin Peaks.” Lynch has a signature style that mixes arthouse flare with absolutely bizarre visuals. Love it or hate it, its mesmerizing to behold.
David Lynch received an Academy Award nomination for Best Director for the work. He won the Prix de la mise en scène (Best Director Award) at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival. “Mulholland Drive” is widely considered one of the greatest films of all time.
It’s not.
Cinephiles will love it
But it is the type of movie devout cinephiles will thoroughly enjoy. From its unorthodox narrative, to the filming prowess of Lynch. There’s a dreamlike quality to characters and scenes that’s haunting at times. The director scatters clues to the mystery that are subtle, but ripe for the keen eyed observer. The color palette and costuming offers a vintage Hollywood feel. Even the most mundane of conversations become compelling, with unparalleled tension and suspense. Its modern era noir that’s still digestible.
We know something is off from the second the movie starts. The opening sequence is strange, and it sends an amnesiac woman (Laura Harring) on the run into the darkened streets of Los Angeles. The woman meets an aspiring starlet (Naomi Watts) and the pair set out to solve the mystery of who she is and why she’s on the run. To divulge any further details is unnecessary. It’s a physiological thriller that is done quite well, and I’ll leave it at that.
Female leads shine
Both Naomi Watts and Laura Harring are outstanding in their respective roles. Because of the surrealist nature to the film, each is tasked with portraying multiple facades to their characters, and each actress delivers. I first saw Watts in the horror film “The Ring” and here she’s amazing to witness. Her natural charisma is perfect for film. She has a great chemistry with Harring that shows a natural progression to their relationship on screen.
The supporting cast is composed of Justin Theroux, Mark Pellegrino, Ann Miller, Robert Forster – there are others, but the spotlight is on the two female leads, and rightfully so.
“Mulholland Drive” is the type of movie one will quickly become obsessed with. It will make you think about it, long after it fades to black. It’s not quite as jarring as the aforementioned “Eraserhead” but will still leave you scrambling to watch analysis videos and read other critics interpretations. At least, it did for me.
It misses being perfect with its 146 minute run time. Scenes are deliberately slow, but the pacing did make my mind wander at times. That may be intentional. I will revisit the movie at some point, but not until the dust has settled from my initial viewing.
If you enjoy film on a deep introspective level, you will certainly want to check out “Mulholland Drive.” It’s a surreal treat for the senses. I have now watched two David Lynch movies, and have a love/hate relationship with both. His style is unique, and makes me want to explore more of his work.
“Mulholland Drive” is available to rent on Amazon
