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Inception

Cryptically described as a contemporary sci-fi action thriller "set within the architecture of the mind", this is director Christopher Nolan's follow-up to smash-hit The Dark Knight.

Leonardo DiCaprio is Dom Cobb, an expert in "subconscious security". He's a high-tech agent who steals ideas from his targets while they sleep, manoeuvring through their complex and surreal dreamscapes. Cobb's rare ability has made him both a coveted player in the world of corporate espionage, and an international fugitive. Now Cobb is offered one last job and the chance to get his life back. Instead of the perfect heist, Cobb and his team of specialists have to pull off the reverse: not steal an idea but to plant one.

His wife is played by Marion Cotillard, and Ellen Page is his intern sidekick. Joining them are Nolan regulars Michael Caine, Cillian Murphy and Ken Watanabe. The film was shot around the globe, including Tokyo, Los Angeles, Paris and London.

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Marion Cotillard, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Cillian Murphy, Michael Caine, Ken Watanabe

Directed by Christopher Nolan ('The Dark Knight', 'The Prestige', 'Batman Begins', 'Insomnia', 'Memento')

Written by Christopher Nolan

Thriller, Science Fiction, Action | 2hr 30mins | Rated (M) | Contains Medium Level Violence | Origin: USA, UK

Flicks review

Christopher Nolan’s work has proved him an adept puzzle-maker here and world-builder there, talents that may not always lend themselves to box office success. Several times over now though, they have kept Hollywood’s tills ringing, and now with Inception Nolan has fused those various elements together for their maximum impact to date. There’s a bigger victory beyond that of the film’s financiers and creators to consider as well, a giant win for audiences and the degree to which filmmakers can respect their intelligence.

It’s hard to think of a denser or more complex blockbuster than Inception, especially one that so consistently refuses to abate from challenging those who watch it. From the opening frames it is a dizzying rollercoaster that relentlessly manipulates one’s senses, intellect, and emotions, not letting up for some two and a half hours.

Nolan’s team of collaborators overachieve throughout, be they cast members (DiCaprio grabbing his tragic character by the scruff of his neck, Juno’s Ellen Page surprisingly comfortable playing at this level, and Toms Hardy and Berenger great in supporting roles), Hans Zimmer and Johnny Marr’s work on the intense and incessant score, or longtime cinematographer Wally Pfister.

Basically, Inception’s pretty damn-near perfect and demands to be seen before you hear too much about it. This isn’t a film to be discussed so much as experienced, and while it certainly doesn’t require a repeat viewing to comprehend, I’m going back a second time very, very soon.

By Steve Newall, Flicks.co.nz

Our Rating 5

The Peoples voice

Censored unreality

I wish this had of been a Brit film. I haven't seen it yet but I will. Unfortunately, because this movie is American, it will steer well clear of sexual fantasy in dream life, which is a huge portion. But we already know there will be no nipples. It will be like no one dreams about sex which is how condescending Hollywood treats us now. Of course with the American psyche come gratuitious violence which is more indecent than barred nipples.

But the standard is obviously high film making and an original innovation, Matrix or not.

By Rangi Carroll
Very different to, and in many ways better than, "The Matrix"

5

"Inception" reminds me of daytime "Dark City" as the changing architecture is a central idea in both movies.

Despite what several say, it is not very Matrix-like. However, it could have benefited from one Matrix feature: if you die in the "other" world then you die in real life. The lack of immediacy in "Inception" means that Nolan tries to maintain tension by overextending the music which can't keep up.

The emotional storyline that drives the main character is definitely far beyond any role in "The Matrix". I can't explain the importance of this as I would have to spoil too much of the storyline.

By Mark
Savy but....

3

Far from its iconic status. Nolan just rebooted a pepsidiet version of the Matrix.

By C Saunders
Mind-Churning and Entertaining at the Same Time

5

Inception is the one film that challenges the very line between Reality and Fantasy, This is the film of 2010 Acting is top notch, the same with the music score and of course under the helm of Christopher Nolan I am speechless

By cole
**SPOILER ALERT** I have already seen this film twice.. and I want to see it again..soon

5

This is a film about a guy named Cobb who specializes in subconscious security. This means he can enter people’s dreams through a device called Inception. Now he needs an architect to create a dream that can get him back home to his kids. He has guilt over his dead wife who he created Inception with. He keeps seeing her in is dreams when he is about to wake up. That gives you a basic outline of the plot. First all the acting is amazing Leo DiCaprio as Cobb gives one of best performances ever. Marion Collitard plays his dead wife and is absolutely gorgeous in doing it, and very convincing. Ellen Page is fantastic, so is Joseph Gordon Levitt in his role as the number 2. I have to also mention Ken Watanabe and Michael Caine in very solid performances. Secondly the visuals are stunning. Next the storyline is extremely inventive and amazing, heartfelt and funny as times as well. This is the best film of the year.
I give it 5 stars without hesitation. This is a film for the ages, already one of my all time favorites.

By Philip Moore
Another Nolan Classic

5

Awesome story line with perfect amount of action thrown in, showed Dicaprio can actually act, too.
So refreshing to see what a genuinely good Director can do with 150 million dollars, i hope it does well at the box office to confirm Nolan as one of the best bets for the studios.

And thanks for the Preview tickets flicks.co.nz!..

By Justin
Deserves repeat viewing

5

The other reviews sum it up, this is the first must see movie of 2010 (PS I liked Toy Story 3 but this is better). Its original (not a sequel! or heaven forbid a sqeakuel) and rewards paying attention and using your grey matter. Full of action, twists and turns and beautiful imagery this is a wonderful film. Go see it, and then see it again ;)

By Brendon
The greatest cinematic experience of my life

5

yeah, thats all I have to say

By Jim
A Masterpiece of modern cinema

5

Nick I think you are being a bit harsh on this film. For a start the reason this film is so good is because Christopher Nolan has such an inventive mind. I don't believe there are many directors and writers out there that would be able to come up with a script as amazing as this. This film is the film of 2010.. I loved Toy Story 3 and still do.. but this is for sure to get nominated for best picture at the Oscars in February

By Philip Moore
If it wasn't "from the director of The Dark Knight", this film would have flopped...

3

Yes, it's good. It's original and pretty cool at times. But the only reason why this movie surprises people is because Nolan actually managed to get $160,000,000 to make a modified art film with action scenes. There are so many amazing ideas like this that get turned down everyday, I swear at least half the five star people were so amazed by how convoluted it was that they just decided it had to be amazing, I mean Christopher Nolan made it, it couldn't be anything else, right?

By Nick
Inception

5

Inception was kind of hard to understand at times but teh rest of the movie was great.

By Salu Wilson
Surreal

5

Simply perfect, a must see for anyone with a subconcious. Im sure it will change the way of making movies altering the concepts of time, and parallel realities, it even changed my dreams! Couldn't ask for anything better. Thank you for the free tickets!!

By Vanessa
WHAT A RIDE! Fabulous!!

5

The best way I can describe this movie is The Matrix crossed with a great James Bond movie crossed with a love story. Loved it. Two and a half hours seemed like one and a half - How did they do that? - or was it just a dream? I'll definitely be returning to see this again. Can I give it six stars pleeeease??

By Rob
Opens the mind to endless possibilities!

4

My boyfriend and I thought the film was amazing. From the actors to the anaimations everything was very well crafted together. We are still talking about some of the aspects raised and you know its a good movie when u are able to remember most of it! Personally the thing i loved the most was how intellectually stimulating it was. =] It is a must see at least twice. I will definately be watching this great movie again. Thank you for the tickets it was an awesome experiance!!!

By ness
Memento meets Matrix

4

Have to pay attention to this one, but such an awesome movie, the best that I have seen in a long time. A thinking action, it had one of the coolest fight scenes aswell (without giving it away!)

Thanks Flicks!

By Michelle
One not to miss in 2010!!!

5

Although not perfect, e.g. Matrix to me what better..this still is the best movie so far in 2010...type of movie you will need to wtach a few times to take into account all the subtle plots within plots... a must see

By Peter
Amazing and totally different

5

I found 'Inception' to be completely amazing and unlike anything I have ever seen. It is a movie that is original and it is likely there won't be a movie like it for a long time. Well worth watching!!!

By Sylvie
Inception

5

Saw this movie last night (21.7.10) at Flick's generous preview screening and again today because it was such a great movie! Went to it twice in order to pick up holes in the movie that hadn't quite been picked up on the first time round. The movie had a lot to offer the second time around and I loved every minute of it. Loved the ending, awesome AWESOME movie!

By Penny Reid
Best Movie of The Year!!!

5

I love love love this film, it was amazing and it had all sorts of twists and turns..it has become my absolute favourite movie of all time..It was epic and would LOVE!

By Ashley Meenken
Action with a twist

4

I was expecting it to be deeper, but it's actually just an good action film with a cool twist. It was very enjoyable, but not as intelligent or mind boggling as the hype lead me to expect. Overall it was engaging and fun to watch and and I'll happily see it again on DVD.
My main challenge was acepting Leonardo as a dad, my disbelief can't be suspended quite that far.

By Sara
See it if you haven't, see it again if you have!

5

What an amazing movie! I kept catching myself frowning with confusion at the screen. Awesomely intense, with layer upon layer of action and suspense, great acting/characters and a few laughs thrown in for good measure. Get out and see it people - Thanks Flicks, you rock my world!

By AJ
Another great Nolan film

5

A fantastic idea and great execution.

To quote one review I read on this, Nolan never intended to confuse or have us twisting our heads around something hiding in the background. He offers us everything from the start and it is up to each of us as the viewer to interpret it.

Great sets, yet another amazing ensemble cast and an engaging story, I agree that for films released this year, this should be on your "must watch" list.

By JT
Great Film

5

Thanks for the free preview tickets. Brilliant film,a must see movie! lives up to all expectations.

By Christian
The Totem

4

Definitely one of those movies you have to see more than once to grasp and fully appreciate the story. Great cast and would recommend for those who enjoy a challenging movie.

By Bobby
Am I awake or am I dreaming?

4

Thanks heaps for another excellent preview Flicks! Great movie, amazing graphics, very intense and requires full concentration... definitely makes you think about the possible and impossible, and dream!

By Sarah Inkster
Inception = Mind Buzz Woooow!

5

Thanks so much for the preview tickets to Inception last night Flicks!
It was amazing! Christopher Nolan did a brilliant job and chose the perfect actors for the parts!
Loved the ending to the movie!

By Chelsea
Truly original

5

Nolan does it again! The most original movie of the year. Loved the cast, the music and that I didn't know what was coming next. See it and savour every moment.

By Julia
Amazing

5

Great film. Loved the ideas behind it all. Had some interesting dreams last night. Worth checking out at the movies. Few bits I didn't get but perhaps I just don't understand. Soo epic and intense. Possibly 30mins could be cut, dragged out a little bit near the end. No complaints though. Recommended.

By Ryan
AMAZING!

5

Inception is claustrophobia at its best

By Sita
Good movie - superbly filmed

4

Good movie! Well worth watching in the cinema for the beautiful special effects. Good acting, beautifully executed. love Cillian Murphy in it. though i still have to say Matrix did the whole dream world storyline much better.

Thanks to Flicks for organising the screening

By YS
A good watch

4

This movie is a must see really, although near the end I was just waiting for it to all sum up... it dragged one!

By Sophie
fabbo!

5

I really enjoyed it - thanks Flicks!

A visually beautifully told story with complex narrative arch, amazing cinematography, and an A-list cast. Nolan at his best! Enough twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat, but without cliché and imitation. Original, fanatical, and fantastic.

Nolan at his very best!

By Shane
Captivating......

5

Christopher Nolan is a god, again he has kept the audience enthralled for over 2 hours. The story line and sub plots played out superbly.

By Dianna Taylor
Excellent concept, superbly executed

4

Thanks Flicks for the free tickets

Wow! What an amazing concept. Well acted and superbly executed.
Great ending, while being easily predicted, makes you wonder quite how you got there. Excellent

By Mark
90% liked 10% my own biased intentions

4

Beginnings. I quite like that this does not appear to be a sci-fi or an outlandish action romp although it does have those elements.

This film had a lot going on for it including a simple idea that we are open to invasion while we are at our most vulnerable (parallels to the Matrix cyber world) however one that I enjoy, fun but not outlandish effects, likeable characters and a multi levelled time paradox.

On the 10% of what did not help the movie so much - seeing 'Shutter Island' with its predictable plot and seeing Leo in a role uncomfortably close and without giving away too much the 'threat' of not coming back out.

Overall I did enjoy this movie and would recommend seeing it on a big screen for maximum impact. Ka pai!

By Adrian
Mindblowing

5

Excellent film. A thinking mind show. Trully original story. Christopher Nolan direction and the cinematography was visually stimulating. All the casts plays their role brillantly and convincingly. Vey good movie. Enjoy it emmensely. Thanks Flicks.

By Lee
A Treat

4

Very very impressive and uncompromising film which doesn't allow itself to get too caught up in the sci part of sci-fi, it just focuses on the mental fantasy of the dream based story. Slow in some parts but necessarily so - as this is a well packed & thoughtful rollercoaster that delivers mentally, visually and audibly. (Check out the huge -terminator style- bass!) Don't read any reviews about the story itself, just go and see the film quick.

By Dave K
hmmm

3

great cast, good idea for story, but i saw the final shot coming from a mile away.
do not attempt to see this movie in an altered state of mind.

By amc32
Inception- Inspiring

5

Totally engrossing film. Nolan plays us like a fiddle, building tension, then granting a slight reprieve before starting the roller coaster ride again.
Such a complex original story, told with such subtlety and finesse- it's so much more than its special effects.
Don't dream about it, SEE IT!

By Alexis
A masterpiece

5

Chris Nolan is really at the top of his game. Some people may quibble that it's predictable but 95% of movies are... just because Inception doesn't have a surprise twist ending doesn't mean that it isn't brilliant, original, beautiful, suspenseful and absolutely perfectly executed. Yes, at its core it follows a classic heist movie formula but the layered structure and momentum adds so much complexity to the tale that you are hooked.
This is a superbly crafted story from start to finish, throwing you in the deep end and never letting you catch a breath. Phenomenal film-making.

By Mitch
A MUST See!

5

Wow. BEST movie I've seen in ages. Would definitley reccommend. Might even consider going again!

By Hayley
Unreal

5

Amazing film. 10/10. Go see it and decide for yourself.

By Adrian
Fantastic

5

This movie was superb, mind boggling, keeps you on the edge of your seat with action, and fantastic story lines...can't wait to see it again. Leo was great too

By Vicki
Amazing

5

What a brilliant film. Without thinking too deep, I thought it was a wonderful Dramatic/Thriller. But then as soon as I started to contemplate it... the depth of the ideas suddenly started to mess with my brain. I don't know if I understood it at all now. I have to see it again!

By Brendan
Can't wait to see it again.

5

Thanks Flicks, this was another home-run for Christopher Nolan. Beautiful and intelligent spin on the 'heist' flick, with great depth and real emotional pull.

By Dean
Brilliant

5

Fantastic movie. Exceeded expectations. Beautiful cinematography. Phenomenal effects.

By Monica
OMG what a great Movie

5

it was Excellent, and the ending was the best ending in a movie I have ever seen

By Glenda
A must see

5

Was a bit dubious at first, but had me hooked from the start. Elaine page was fantastic. Leonardo is getting better and better with age, acting ability and hotness factor.
Laughs, action, twists and great story.
Go now

By Tasha
Intelligent and Intense

4

Awesome visual experience and well cast. Lots going on at a complicated level, but it works! Thankyou flicks.co.nz.

By Eliza
Flawless

5

It's ironic that a film about a thought being implanted in someones head stays with you hours after you see it. I cannot stop thinking about Inception - the story, the layers, the ending. Everything is executed so flawlessly I can't imagine anyone coming out of a screening unimpressed. The performances are superb- my personal favourites being Tom Hardy and Joseph Gordon Levitt but in truth everything about this movie is superb. I love the cinematography and the soundtrack. I definitely need to see it again though- I imagine that a second viewing with the knowledge you have going in will reveal new treats.
Thanks again Flicks

By Gareth
Predictable and slow

1

Was anyone seriously surprised by anything that happened in Inception? It was like waiting for retards to come to the same conclusions that the rest of us had reached five minutes into the movie.

The best special effects in the trailer turned out to be undramatic affairs and the implied twist was obvious from minute one. None of the characters had a particular quality of depth to them and were more or less disposable, with DeCrappio hauling out the troubled-o-matic acting routine for the millionth time.

It's fairly passe to whine about Hollywood churning out everyman crap and it's nice to see a change from this, but trust me, this is still only a thinking movie for the lowest-common-denominator. The rest of you will find it tedious.

By Justin
Brilliant but not totally spell binding

4

Great concept, fantastic special effects but there were a few things that brought me out of the dream - for example, the slow motion van falling into the water and some of Leonardo's poor acting. Michael Caine though, awesome as ever!

By Ruth
Stunning.

5

Was amazing. The cinamatography was clever and beautiful, the music was penitrating. Would see it again on the big screen in a second.

By Fiona
Amazing!

5

Probably the best film i have seen this year, was on the edge of my seat for most of the movie and felt speechless afterwards, so much to take in, i think i'm going to have to see it again. So so clever, go see it!

By Krystle
AMAZING!

5

One of the best and most original movies that I've seen over the past decade.

By Lauren
Mind Blowing

5

Certainly made me think. Very "Matrix" in some of the concepts, btu that added rather than detracted. I don't want to like Leonardo, but he's such a good actor you can't help it.
Cillian Murphy is gorgeous - the most beautiful eyes.
Whether you buy the concept, or just want a good entertaining movie with lots of action, you will no doubt enjoy this immensely.

Thanks to the Flicks team who organised the screening.

By Helen
Tooter Movie - Go see it!

5

This movie was ace, probably the best movie I've seen in years. A tonne of great storylines that all tied in nicely to make sense. And some of the cinematography was truly beautiful. I'm glad I wasn't high when I watched this - I don't think my brain could've taken it.

By Bobenner
Nolan, you have done it again!!!

5

Absolutely phenomenal. I would look to my friends after each scene and their jaws were hanging on the ground. We were in awe. See this movie as soon as possible. It's flawless.
Thank you so much flicks.co.nz for the preview viewing. It made my year!

By Mark
Brilliant!!!!!

5

Where to start, an amazing brilliant film. A must see, do not hesitate. Superb performances, mindblowing action, go see it! Thanks Flicks!

By Tania
A must see at least twice movie

5

Loved it!! There have been conparisons with The Matrix but I reminded me more of Bourne on acid - a mind bending action thriller. Really looking foward to going again tonight as there is so much to experience that neither the conscious of sub-conscious can take it all in in one hit.

By Aidan
5

Absolutely brilliant. Nice to see a high concept blockbuster manage to maintain a complicated setup without expositioning the audience to death, or cheating (as far as I could tell). I wasn't a huge fan of The Dark Knight. It was entertaining but I never felt emotionally engaged. Nolan managed that in spades this time. Excellent performances. Tom Hardy and Joseph Gordon-Levitt stole the show, characterwise. (Visually astounding... goes without saying). Thanks for the tickets Flicks!

By Hadley
Well, I liked the pretty pictures.

2

Another failure of execution from Nolan.

By James
Masterpiece

5

Just got back from the Wellington Flick's screening and now I want to see it again. It makes The Dark Knight look as if it was filmed in my backyard with batman figurines. I walked out of the movie with my mind blown. I recommend that everyone view this film eleventy billion times.

By Jay Collins
OMG WOW

5

just back from seeing this! a must see movie! lives up to all expectations! def keen to see it again and i will be buying the dvd!

By minxx
4

Kept me on the edge of my seat while I was partly thinking 'what on earth is going on here'. Need to see it again but loved the originality. Very very good film. Thanks flicks for the preview screening!

By melissa
WOW WOW WOW!!

5

Christopher Nolan has created another cinematic thrill ride which is both visually and intellectually stimulating. This film has is an intelligent and engaging experience which has been perfectly executed by Nolan. Inception is the best film I have seen in ages. Leonardo Dicaprio plays his role brilliantly and is supported by an excellent ensemble cast. A must see film!

By Debi
Can't wait to dream tonight

5

Excellent. 9 thumbs up!

By Dave

Collective Voice 0000000000005.00

Press Reviews

Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)

Inception does a difficult thing. It is wholly original, cut from new cloth, and yet structured with action movie basics so it feels like it makes more sense than (quite possibly) it does.
Click to read the full review
Empire (UK)

5 5 out of 5 stars

Like The Matrix mated with Synecdoche, New York — or a Charlie Kaufman 007. To paraphrase Casino Royale’s Vesper Lynd, it’s a meaningful pursuit in a summer of disposable entertainments. With physics-defying, thunderous action, heart-wringing emotion and an astonishing performance from DiCaprio, Nolan delivers another true original: welcome to an undiscovered country.
Click to read the full review
Hollywood Reporter

In a summer of remakes, reboots and sequels comes Inception, easily the most original movie idea in ages.
Click to read the full review
Los Angeles Times

A tremendously exciting science-fiction thriller that's as disturbing as it sounds. This is a popular entertainment with a knockout punch so intense and unnerving it'll have you worrying if it's safe to close your eyes at night.
Click to read the full review
New York Times

Though there is a lot to see in Inception, there is nothing that counts as genuine vision. Mr. Nolan’s idea of the mind is too literal, too logical, too rule-bound to allow the full measure of madness -- the risk of real confusion, of delirium, of ineffable ambiguity -- that this subject requires.
Click to read the full review
NZ Herald (Russell Baillie)

4 4 out of 5 stars

Popcorn meets profound in mind-bending sci-fi thriller.
Click to read the full review
Total Film (UK)

4 4 out of 5 stars

Nolan shifts the goalposts in a high-concept hybrid that fuses existential sci-fi and Bondian mayhem into one captivating whole. But you may just end up craving a little more human connection.
Click to read the full review
TVNZ (Darren Bevan)

Quite frankly though, Inception is mind blowing, mind bending kind of stuff.
Click to read the full review
Variety (USA)

If Inception is a metaphysical puzzle, it's also a metaphorical one: It's hard not to draw connections between Cobb's dream-weaving and Nolan's filmmaking -- an activity devoted to constructing a simulacrum of reality, intended to seduce us, mess with our heads and leave a lasting impression. Mission accomplished.
Click to read the full review

Now-playing

Inception

Flicks review

The Peoples voice

Censored unreality

Very different to, and in many ways better than, "The Matrix"

Savy but....

Mind-Churning and Entertaining at the Same Time

**SPOILER ALERT** I have already seen this film twice.. and I want to see it again..soon

Another Nolan Classic

Deserves repeat viewing

The greatest cinematic experience of my life

A Masterpiece of modern cinema

If it wasn't "from the director of The Dark Knight", this film would have flopped...

Inception

Surreal

WHAT A RIDE! Fabulous!!

Opens the mind to endless possibilities!

Memento meets Matrix

One not to miss in 2010!!!

Amazing and totally different

Inception

Best Movie of The Year!!!

Action with a twist

See it if you haven't, see it again if you have!

Another great Nolan film

Great Film

The Totem

Am I awake or am I dreaming?

Inception = Mind Buzz Woooow!

Truly original

Amazing

AMAZING!

Good movie - superbly filmed

A good watch

fabbo!

Captivating......

Excellent concept, superbly executed

90% liked 10% my own biased intentions

Mindblowing

A Treat

hmmm

Inception- Inspiring

A masterpiece

A MUST See!

Unreal

Fantastic

Amazing

Can't wait to see it again.

Brilliant

OMG what a great Movie

A must see

Intelligent and Intense

Flawless

Predictable and slow

Brilliant but not totally spell binding

Stunning.

Amazing!

AMAZING!

Mind Blowing

Tooter Movie - Go see it!

Nolan, you have done it again!!!

Brilliant!!!!!

A must see at least twice movie

Well, I liked the pretty pictures.

Masterpiece

OMG WOW

WOW WOW WOW!!

Can't wait to dream tonight

Tell us all that is right or wrong with this flick:

Press Reviews

Chicago Sun-Times (Roger Ebert)

Empire (UK)

Hollywood Reporter

Los Angeles Times

New York Times

NZ Herald (Russell Baillie)

Total Film (UK)

TVNZ (Darren Bevan)

Variety (USA)

SPOILER ALERT I have already seen this film twice.. and I want to see it again..soon