Review of Mimic (1997) by Jonathan B — 18 Nov 2011

Mimic is a tricky film to review. It's not particularly strong or noteworthy, expect for the fact it was a major learning experience for one of my favorite directors, Guillermo del Toro. Del Toro was severely handcuffed by the studio on his Hollywood debut at a time when he was an unknown with zero clout, which forced him to adapt and improve upon his craft in a way that he wouldn't have otherwise.

With all the (mostly) brilliant work that followed Mimic, it renders the film something of a necessary evil and an interesting viewing experience. The director's cut is a definite improvement, and really the only way to watch the film now, but even the new cut is far surpassed by del Toro's commentary track, which is as blunt, honest and loving a recounting as has been told of a flawed work.