The Saragossa Manuscript
Posted by martinteller on September 7, 2007
Astonishing, but with one caveat: it is very hard to get into this movie. The first half (90 minutes worth) seems to meander on and on, leaving you wondering if it will ever end. The story is told largely in flashback, and the main thread just goes nowhere and eventually feels tedious. But suddenly things click when Avadoro starts his tale, which takes up most of the second half. It’s a magnificently circular and layered story (the flashbacks go up to FIVE levels deep!) that satisfies with wit, charm, and ingenuity. When you return to the primary plotline, everything just comes together and heads towards its wonderful, mystical conclusion. Also noteworthy is the brilliant score by Penderecki, who also did music for The Shining and Inland Empire. If you can make it through the early parts, it’s a journey well worth taking. Rating: 8
