Primer (2004), Shane Carruth

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Genre: Drama, Science Fiction
Overall Rating:

(out of 5)

This movie was made with a skimpy $11,000 budget, and yet its a lot better than most movies that come out today.  This is a pretty realistic time travel flick, and actually makes it seem realistically possible.  In the beginning, you're like "wtf are they talking about" but then it all starts to become clear.  This is one of those movies that you really have to be clear-headed on in order to understand anything, and probably requires more than 1 viewing... for sure.

The Story:

(out of 5)

1 Point: Interesting

2 Points: Original

1 Point: Unpredictable

1 Point: OMGZ

Two friends experiment with different chemicals and technologies after work as a hobby.  They make a "box," with unsure results.  Through research and further testing, they realize that they have created a time travel device of sorts.  Like any other probably would, they start manipulating time to make money as a team... but selfishness comes in between these two friends.

Characters:

(out of 5)

1 Point: Well-Played

1 Point: Original

1 Point: Relatable

1 Point: Emotional Attachment

1 Point: OMGZ

Aaron (Shane Carruth): One of the friends who manipulates the technology for his own ends.

Abe (David Sullivan): The other friend, who finds out that they have created a time travel device.

Believability:

(out of 5)

1 Point: No Disbelief

1 Point: Well-Explained

1 Point: Characters Fit Conceivably

1 Point: Not Foolishly Omniscient

1 Point: OMGZ

Weight:

(out of 5)
1 Point: Relatable Lives
1 Point: Relatable Choices
1 Point: "Wow" Moments
1 Point: Lasting
1 Point: OMGZ

I watched this movie a few weeks ago, and had nearly forgotten about it... Oops.  Its amazing, though, really.  I wouldn't go so far as to say I can relate to their lives (I'm not a closet chemist), but their choices are human and the movie definitely has its "wow" factor (maybe more "wtf" factor).

Visual:

(out of 5)
2 Points: Visual Quality
1 Point: Unique Visual Perspective
1 Point: Special Effects
1 Point: OMGZ

The visual was well done, but nothing spectacular.  The story line is what makes this movie.