By Chuck Stinson
Director: Shane Caruth
Starring: Shane Caruth, David Sullivan
Release date: In stores
If you have ever seen a film based on time travel, you probably know the concept is flawed. Questions are usually left unanswered by movies, despite the overcomplicated theoretical discussions about quantum physics. The common downfall of this specific science fiction genre is how elaborate the plots usually are. Fortunately, writer and director Shane Carruth figured out how to make a successful time travel film with his first film, “Primer.”
Sometimes the only way to find an interesting and original film is to look to the independent film circuit. Simplicity sets this film apart from all the others. It’s not ridiculously complex but the outcomes of the characters’ actions aren’t ignored. “Primer” leaves you with few questions, if any, as the film comes to a conclusion. Carruth explores the idea of time travel, planting the thought and allowing you to explore it as you wish, without slapping you with numbing visual effects.
Everyone in this movie delivered a break-out performance – it was the first time on the big screen for every actor.
Carruth and David Sullivan play Aaron and Abe, two members of a young entrepreneurial group set up in a garage. They take modern products and attempt to invent better and more efficient products. While working on a new invention Aaron and Abe discover more than they ever expected – a possible way to distort time. As they learn more about what they have created, issues of trust and greed begin to come between the two. Will the newfound distrust stop them from achieving what they really want – and do they even know what they really want?
The DVD hit stores a few months ago despite its 2004 conception. The late arrival is due to the film’s long run with the Sundance Film Festival, where it received the honor of Grand Jury Prize (Best Picture).
There are not many additional features on the DVD, but the few that are available are excellent. There are two very interesting audio commentaries, the first of which is voiced by Carruth, who discusses the physical aspects of the film and some insight on how he shaped the story. The second commentary is a look into the actors’ minds, as they tackle their first movie-making experience.
The acting is slightly sub-par, but acceptable if you take into consideration that it was everyone’s first movie. The story is outstanding and reaches levels that haven’t been touched in science fiction in years. Overall, this movie is a must-own for any fan indie film, and a must-rent for anyone who is just sick of the same old crap Hollywood keeps putting out.
