Enemy- Review

Enemy, to many, is an incomprehensible film that uses art, symbolism and the subconscious to deliver a piece that is thought provoking and yet falls under the radar. It's a film I have been meaning to see for quite some time and though I have had two days to properly mull this one over, I'm not sure what was more strange: going into this film without a clue or coming out of it. This film would be enjoyed best without the simplest idea, so I won't be including any spoilers. Because it's that type of film, this review will be incredibly vague. You also cannot simply look for answers after you've finished this film either, because there aren't any. It takes on a philosophical approach, hence its psychological value.

This film was directed by Dennis Villeneuve and if you remember, also directed Prisoners which follows the similar reoccurrence of a particular colour palette and the need for psycho-thriller elements. The thing I find challenging about this film is that it's less thriller and more brain-tickling. The musical score does try to captivate some mystery and some suspense but it seems rather inconsistent. That's really the only major downfall with this film, just the general technical deliverance of a dull and mediocre scenery.

Doppelgängers are a particularly popular concept within our film and literature scene. I've noticed that it bears similarities to The One I Love in that same confused and twisted way. Jake Gyllenhaal does very well in this instance of having to multiply himself and act almost as a polar opposite to himself. Once you've sort of gained an idea about the context of this film or general director's idea, you'll see that his role is all the more powerful than at first thought.

I do really like films that yearn for their audiences to be stuck in a state of deep thought or confusion, yet I'm not sure that it's always something that makes a film brilliant. Ideas can often be ill-received. To the average viewer, this film would sit pretty idle with them. I doubt they'd take much away from it. I must admit, there were times where I felt bored. Perhaps you can put that down to me not understanding certain scenes or just because it wasn't my entire forte. Either way, it isn't a bad film and does offer Jake's talent at such a high level.

If you like art house sort of films, mind-boggling puzzles or that euphoria of confusion, look no further than Enemy. Go in with a clear and open mind and try to make your own assumptions afterwards. You'll find it an incredibly difficult task.

Score: 7.5/10.