Review of Primer (2004) by David R — 18 Jan 2013

"Primer" is the best time-travel film I've seen - the story is like a mathematical proof, and you'll spend some time afterward thinking through plot, looking for holes. There aren't any I am aware of, though I'm not sure I completely understand the last act.

Shane Carruth is a pretty decent actor too, no doubt because he knew the material so well. David Sullivan is natural in his role when he's not hampered by the technical dialog at the start, which is actually the only criticism I have about the movie. The lines are difficult for the amateur cast to deliver, and Carruth wastes time trying to convince the audience that his story is plausible - this has the opposite effect and alienates viewers without an aptitude for science.

Too bad for them, because once the script graduates to the logistics of going back in time a day (or a year) is where the story begins to fire on all cylinders. Carruth builds the pace expertly towards the end, such that only the real intellectuals are able to keep up. I was not, and if you can't either don't feel inadequate... it probably took years to work out the details - just watch it again.