Memento

About

"Memento" is a psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan, released in 2000. The film follows Leonard Shelby, a former insurance investigator suffering from anterograde amnesia, which prevents him from forming new memories. This condition stems from an attack where his wife was murdered, and he is driven by a quest for revenge against the second attacker, whom he believes is named "John G." or "James G." Leonard uses a system of tattoos and Polaroids to track his progress, as he cannot remember events after they occur. The film's narrative is presented in reverse chronological order, creating a complex and engaging storyline. This reverse structure enhances the mystery and confusion felt by both Leonard and the audience. As the story unfolds, it reveals that Leonard's perception of reality is manipulated by others, including Teddy and Natalie, who use his condition for their own purposes. The twist that Leonard's wife survived the initial attack but was later killed by Leonard himself adds a layer of tragic complexity to the narrative. This twist, combined with the reverse narrative, makes "Memento" a mind-bending exploration of memory, identity, and the reliability of truth.