Review of Mystery Train (1989) by Grant P — 21 Jun 2008
Mystery Train is quite similar to Jarmusch's following film Night on Earth. This, however, was his original experiment with synchronicity. The three vignettes in this film are slightly more involving, because they are a little longer and physically overlap. The first with the Japanese couple is a bit more singular than the last pair, but their relationship is still very strong to "A Ghost" vignette.
It wouldn't be a Jarmusch film unless there was miscommunication through language, right? The entire first section of "Far from Yokohama" is almost entirely in Japanese, and Luisa is native Italian. Their encounters with English folk in Memphis are obviously a bit strained.
As Down by Law had on-location shooting, so does Mystery Train. It definitely brings an authenticity to the work, and the distinctive qualities of the city are naturally shown through dolly shots of characters walking around day and night.
In addition to the hotel connecting the three stories, the importance of Elvis' "spirit" also does whether it be interest in his life, a tale about him or someone nicknamed Elvis.
Mystery Train works well as a singular work and even better as a companion to Night on Earth.
This review of Mystery Train (1989) was written by Grant P on 21 Jun 2008.
Mystery Train has generally received very positive reviews.
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