FILM-FORWARD.COMReviews of Recent Independent, Foreign, & Documentary Films in Theaters and DVD/Home Video
PRIMER
In Shane
Carruth's directorial debut, the former engineer turned filmmaker has created a
small but engrossing story of young engineers pursuing their dream to escape the drudgery of everyday life.
Abe (David Sullivan) and Aaron (Shane Carruth) spend their nights in Aaron's garage hoping to discover
the "next big thing." When they and two additional partners build a box and
superconductor suggesting the possibility of time travel, the
hopes and tensions, growing from an intense partnership, rise to the surface. Further, when Abe and
Aaron decide to move forward without the knowledge
and participation of their other partners, extraordinary success, and
conflict, result.
Once Abe and Aaron learn the practical applications of their invention, they
predictably turn to the stock market’s profit-making potential. Greed, however,
does not become the central issue of the film. Fortunately, Carruth engages
the viewer in a different twist which, while complicated, is mesmerizing.
Carruth never fully or adequately develops the relationships between the two
primary characters, their associates or families, but that intensifies
the curious and sometimes deceitful relationship between Abe and Aaron. Are
they loyal to each other? Will their scientific curiosity take them
in directions which will destroy their discovery? Carruth artfully weaves this scientific and personal
tale through a complicated spectrum to deliver an enjoyable minimalist
journey through time.
One cautionary note: this low-budget independent effort results in a slightly
uneven level of performances by the inexperienced cast. But if one can
remain focused on the plot, it can be very satisfying. Michael Morley,
President of CineBLAST! Productions (Revolution #9, Bobby G. Can't Swim
& Spring Forward)
|