The first installment to what I must remember . . . Ah yes, amnesia. Am-ne-sia [am-nee-zhuh] – noun; A wonderful exploration device for the art of cinema. Seriously folks, the proof lies here.

Paris, Texas

Paris, Texas (1983) is quite possibly director Wim Wenders’ (Wings of Desire) finest film. The haunting sounds emitted from Ry Cooder’s electric slide guitar set the tone for Harry Dean Stanton to emerge as a mute drifter with amnesia. The story of his painful past is revealed through the reuniting of his family, where Nastassja Kinski plays an invaluable, albeit lesser role.

Paris, Texas is often overlooked as a masterpiece and is a relevant contribution to the history of cinema.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) is scripted by Charlie Kaufman in his signature, complex and fantastical style. Formerly a music video director, Michel Gondry is a spot on choice to realize the astonishing Kaufman vision of two ex-lovers seeking to erase their memories of jilted pain. Kate Winslet gives a great performance, and it is certainly Jim Carrey’s finest hour on screen.

The Fisher King

The Fisher King (1991) is directed by Terry Gilliam and stars Robin Williams, Jeff Bridges and Mercedes Ruehl. Gilliam’s dark fantasy style is perfectly suited for the mod fable. Here, amnesia is brought on by loss but then manifests into heroic and noble schizophrenia with a divine quest. The Fisher King also serves as an offbeat poetic tribute to New York City.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.