Review of Synecdoche, New York (2008) by Julián M — 17 Dec 2011

This film is like a good video game. At first you're confused about the controls, they're completely different from everything you've ever played. Most of your friends have given up on it for that reason but you stay with it because you admire the originality. Then one day it clicks and you've mastered it. And as time goes by you play other video games but you always find yourself coming back to this one. That is the best way I can describe Charlie Kaufman's directorial debut. It's truly an interactive experience.

I've heard alot of comparisons to certain David Lynch films(Eraserhead, Mulholland Dr, Inland Empire) and that's a solid comparison. But there is one fundamental difference between his work and Synecdoche. Lynch movies aren't there for you to understand, it's more for the experience. Kaufman wants you to understand, he gives you all you need. Its such a new experience that it takes a little work and those that are willing to put a little work into it will truly be rewarded. And at 22 i'm interested to see how much this movie stays with me as I deal with the thoughts of death, getting older, marriage, kids etc etc.