I have a love/hate relationship with the work of Terry Gilliam. I love the visual delights he creates for me and I hate that most of his films I have seen on the small screen. Not this time though.I had the chance to see The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus today with my dear friend Alex after it finally having it's release extended. The movie originally released on Christmas day, but the closest showings were in the NYC. If I had to, I would have made the trip, but am glad to see the brought it to Baltimore finally.
I was not disappointed by waiting though. I wish I had the artistic balls that Terry Gilliam has. I respect the fact that he takes us to a crazy world with no apologies, he does not bow to his audience, but challenges his audience to go where he takes them. His films aren't for everyone though, there were many people in the theatre who were silent while chuckles of pure joy rang out from the few who were willing to take the trip. I bet many will see this film because it was Heath Ledger's last film, though I suspect they will not enjoy it as much as those who go to delight in the journey.
Speaking of Heath's death... The thing I admired most about this film was the way that the death was handled. I don't want to ruin the surprise and delight you *should* experience when you see the choices Mr. Gilliam made, but I will say that it was a very respectful way to solve the problem. It celebrated the work that Heath did on the film and allowed other actors to pay homage at the same time. Very well done.
I'd recommend partaking should you enjoy being transported. This is not a film made to be seen at home, well not unless you own a gigantic projection screen, then you might be able to get away with it...
Tease your movie pallet with the trailer here:
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