Wednesday 2 June 2010

David Lynch's Ten Tips for Figuring Out Mulholland Dr.



Mulholland Dr. (2001) is one of the richest movie experiences I’ve ever had.  Baffling, confounding and (at times) maddening, it’s a typically Lynchian take on the Hollywood dream.

Some people get it on first viewing.  I didn’t - it took me FOUR before I felt I understood what I’d seen.  Some people hate it.  Maybe they didn’t get it at all.

Personally, I don’t think getting it matters too much - the movie has a wonderful, surreal quality and amazing performances (especially Naomi Watts - check out the audition scene); the net effect is like waking from a dense, beguiling dream you can’t shake.

If that sounds like a lot of work, here’s David Lynch’s ten clues to figuring out the movie.
  1. Pay particular attention in the beginning of the film: at least two clues are revealed before the credits.
  2. Notice appearances of the red lampshade.
  3. Can you hear the title of the film that Adam Kesher is auditioning actresses for? Is it mentioned again?
  4. An accident is a terrible event… notice the location of the accident.
  5. Who gives a key, and why?
  6. Notice the robe, the ashtray, the coffee cup.
  7. What is felt, realized and gathered at the club Silencio?
  8. Did talent alone help Camilla?
  9. Notice the occurrences surrounding the man behind Winkies.
  10. Where is Aunt Ruth?

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