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.
- Pay particular attention in the beginning of the film: at least two clues are revealed before the credits.
- Notice appearances of the red lampshade.
- Can you hear the title of the film that Adam Kesher is auditioning actresses for? Is it mentioned again?
- An accident is a terrible event… notice the location of the accident.
- Who gives a key, and why?
- Notice the robe, the ashtray, the coffee cup.
- What is felt, realized and gathered at the club Silencio?
- Did talent alone help Camilla?
- Notice the occurrences surrounding the man behind Winkies.
- Where is Aunt Ruth?
