Review of The Nines (2007) by James H — 08 Mar 2010

This film was written and directed by John August, and his work I have admired previously without even knowing it. Yet, it is this single film that has made me his fan for the rest of my life.

The film starts simply enough, we seemingly focus on a guy (Ryan Reynolds) who is dealing with a break up in a rather cathartic manner. We follow him to learn he is an actor, and come to believe that he is simply acting at as his type tend to do in such a situation. It is however, not as it seems. We are teased with the phrase "Look for the nines" without any real explanation. Then, we are given a taste that there is a bigger picture we are not privy too.

Cut to, the next part of the story where our lead (Reynolds) is now playing a tv writer. We follow him on his journey to get his tv show made in the manner of a "behind the scenes" documentary. Once that plays out, we follow him and his family one a trip in the woods where the story is revealed. What a story it is too.

We come to learn exactly who it is we've been watching and what has been happening during these "stories." It is a fascinating tale and take on the level of our existence. It isn't often a movie will come along and cause me to think and examine so much of it in one sitting. I was left with a sense of awe by the end of this. All the pieces were there for you to see, and if you are truly brilliant, you will see the end coming by Part Two. I, however, was left unaware up until the end, just absorbing what was happening. At first glance you can say that it was a simple idea, but not really.

The thought and careful architecture that went into crafting this film is almost beyond compare. From beginning to end you are hooked, and intrigued. Just when you feel like you could be frustrated with not knowing what is going on, you are given just enough information to shake your very foundation. What you presumed is no longer relevant. Well, that's the way it was with me at least.

Solid performances all around, from every one. An amazing story told in just the right way. I can't tell you how much I recommend you check this out if you are so inclined.