Tenet Movie Review And Trailer

Did you watch Tenet yet? Christopher Nolan films often leave viewers in a heightened, almost confounded state of mind. Was our mind blown because of the next level complexities and meticulous construction or is Tenet a self-inflated mess of a film?

Is this how I want to feel after seeing a big tentpole summer blockbuster? For most, the answer is a resounding yes, along with the sense of having experienced something exceptional.

“Momento”, “The Dark Knight”, and “Inception” are regarded classics which reward with each repeat viewing. I love a movie I can dissect and debate as opposed to a disposable one.

So what’s the verdict on Tenet?

Nolan campaigned to be the savior of theaters from the dreaded scourge of COVID-19. While no doubt a noble cause, it appears to have been a futile one.

One could say it was a bit bull-headed of Nolan to attempt to force people into theaters against their will. I for one was NOT willing to risk my life to view this film, no matter how bad I desired to.

(I was fortunate enough to find a drive-in to fulfill my celluloid needs). Even the initial trailer for Tenet was only available to those who braved the pandemic to see it.

Why would Warner Bros make such risky moves with a 200 million dollar investment? Their faith seemed hedged on hopes the visionary could indeed fulfill his own prophecy. And who could blame them?

The pandemic’s uncharted territory has already cost studios millions of dollars. Urgency motivated by desperation is the current gauge for film distribution. Is it worth the gamble? Without spoilers, we’ll explore what makes Tenet…tick.

Image: Warner Bros.

John David Washington plays “The Protagonist”, a nameless mercenary who guides us through this mind-bending maze. Along the way, we’re introduced to the concept of “inversion” which is as complicated as it sounds.

The official WB synopsis reads like something out of a pulp sci-fi novel with talk of international espionage and missions beyond our current scope of comprehension.

But this ain’t your daddy’s time travel. Stay with me here. Inversion is the concept that time can run backward. Most of the spectacular action pieces utilize this to mesmerizing effect.

I can safely say you’ve never seen this before. Visuals are gorgeous, elevating the generic bond-ian espionage plot.

For Nolan, the setup is nowhere near as important as the payoff. And payoff it does. That is if you can keep up with the rapid-fire discussions which populate the script.

The sheer complexity might be better suited for those carrying physics degrees. Let’s face it he isn’t a filmmaker for the attention impaired.

Image: Warner Bros.

That said there is a marked difference in his pacing. We barrel right out the gate with relentless action, never giving you a moment to catch your breath.

The spectacle is why Tenet exists to be the immersive summer theater experience. All the elements are in play: amazing cast, stunning practical stunts and visuals, a pulsing score from composer Ludwig Goransson and Nolan!

Personal moments of outright confusion couldn’t break my gaze from the glorious screen. I didn’t dare look away and miss any magic. When it comes to “popcorn flicks”, this is close as it gets with an auteur like Nolan.

Slick enough to please the senses but cerebral enough to provide narrative weight. You may not grasp its meaning, but damn it’s fun.

Unfortunately, COVID is preventing many from partaking in a wonderful experience. I under no circumstances advocate risking life and limb to see this.

Safety during this pandemic is of the utmost concern. However, if you happen to safely find a way its absolutely worth the price of admission.

Watch the Tenet trailer below:

Read our latest movie review here.