I finally saw « The Machinist » starring Christian Bale (Batman Begins, American Psycho), Jennifer Jason Leigh (Road to Perdition, and Aitana Sánchez-Gijón (A Walk in the Clouds). This is one of those rare coincidences when I actually agree with the critics: Christian Bale was superb in this film. Well, to be fair, the whole ensemble was really great. I think any one of the cast member was just as crucial as the other in making the film such an engaging piece of work.

For those of you who are interested in seeing the movie because of its similarity with Memento (Christopher Nolan), it might be a bit of a let down. I think the only reason why people are linking it to the 2000 release is because they just couldn't relate it to any other film. Although there are certain parts of The Machinist that's very similar to Memento (Post-it notes), it's a totally different movie. To me Christopher Nolan's work is essentially a suspense, while this movie is a drama. Memento kept you guessing up 'til the end, but don't expect that from The Machinist; at some point you'd have enough clues to guess what's really happening. Weak script? I don't think so, because if you watch the film with your head clear of Memento redux hopes, the drama behind Trevor's condition is the actual story. Bale's insanity in losing 63lbs has really paid off, because there is no way anyone could help him/herself from cringing looking at that living skeleton. In a way this is a less intense movie than Memento, but more personal.

Hmm... for someone who thinks that this movie is nothing like Memento, I sure mentioned Memento (second time in a single sentence!) a lot! OK, so here's the synopsis of what "The Machinist" is about: "Trevor Reznik is an heavy-machinery operator who hasn't slept for the past year. As he continues on suffering from insomnia, the sleep depravity began to affect him. Hallucinations began to merge with his reality. What's really happening? Is there a conspiracy against him? Or is he really losing his mind? Witness Trevor drudge through his hazy existence as he uncovers the truth."

Now forget all that I've said about the movie, and go see the movie with a head clear of expectations. Just rest assured that the 2 hours you'll spend is worth it. Also, I dare you to resist watching the making-of up to the end!