Primer

[Eds]

Shane Carruth's Primer is an excellent example not only of how to make science-fiction, but also how to make an effective low-budget film. Its central plot driver is a time-travel device invented accidentally by a group of brilliant but directionless scientists. However, the beauty of the film rests not in the fetishisation of the technology involved, but with the explorations of the different characters' reactions to the opportunities the technology opens to them.

If it sounds complicated, it is. Much of the first act's script is thick (and somewhat mundane) technobabble as the guys are developing the machine. Once they get it working, and realise the ramifications of being able to live a day over again, the story really begins to cook. Deals are made, situations are changed and re-changed and the flow of time is looped back over itself many times. Some characters and situations appear late in the piece that complicate the story (perhaps a little unnecessarily). Make no mistake; it's a tough one to follow if you're not paying close attention and, like the film's protagonists, you'll be tempted once the film's over to cue it straight back to the beginning again.

Primer, while being far from perfect, is an excellent little film that rewards the patient and focused viewer.

[Zan]

I saw this in Glasgow a few months ago and feel that it really requires multiple viewings to 'get'. I've not been able to get a copy for a second (or third) viewing, and as such am still a little hazy on some of the late-story developments.

That said, the premise and execution was generally excellent, though it was difficult to differentiate between the main characters for some time as they spoke of similar things and wore similar clothes (business attire).

[t101]

Saw this one a few weeks back. Loved it - didn't know what was really going on (or even why it was named Primer) until right near the end. Sadly didn't get a chance to watch it again - will have to get it out.

[Salted_Chipmunk]

AS above, saw this move a while ago, was impressed with it, a good watch.

[Canalien]

I watched this a while back and am fairly certain I had a small stroke trying to understand what was going on.

[pinchy]

I loved every minute of it and have a copy. I love the fact it was made by an engineer for a production budget of around $5k. The guy was basically pissed off that prototypes and inventions were being potrayed as big shiny things when in reality the truth is far different.

Watch it a few times, its worth it. Many different sub-plots become clear, and the reason for that scene at the end that gets played over and over, the reason he's left hanging at the end all fits together nicely. One of my favourite films.