Have you ever heard so
much "buzz" about a movie, that you couldn't wait to check it out for
yourself? Then, when you finally see it, you leave the theater
feeling extreme disappointment. That aptly describes the experience
of seeing "Waking Life."
The admittedly unique film, written and directed by Richard Linklater ("Dazed and Confused"), was first shown to audiences at this year's Sundance Film Festival and later played at the Toronto International Film Festival. Since Sundance it has been enjoying critical adulation and accolades.
The "animated" "Waking Life" was originally shot and edited as a live action film. The footage was subsequently painted frame by frame via computer by a team of more than 30 artists. Art director Bob Sabiston created the software used to create the film's look.
There is no denying the stunning beauty of it. There is so much going on in one frame, and such an abundance of vibrant color, that it becomes overwhelming at times. You feel like you can't take it all in. Still shots resemble paintings in this visually remarkable motion picture.
Unfortunately, the story (or lack thereof) is a problem. It concerns a young man, played by Wiley Wiggins, who wanders through a world that may or may not be real. Every time he thinks that he has awakened from his dream, he discovers that he hasn't.
{INSERT_RELATED}As he travels, he crosses paths with an assortment of 60-odd characters that range from Speed Levitch to famous director Steven Soderbergh ("Traffic") to actor Ethan Hawke. Each one dispenses his home-grown philosophy, rambling on about anything and everything, and ultimately nothing. Subjects include God, the afterlife, our souls and love.
A few of the musings are mildly interesting. A majority, however, are redundant and boring, as well as self-indulgent, incoherent and meandering.
Since you're so busy looking at the film, it's all too easy to not listen to it. It doesn't take long before you realize that everything is going in one ear and out the other. Even if you remind yourself to pay more attention, it doesn't last long.
"Waking Life" is worth seeing, but this is a classic case of all style and no substance. There just isn't a story here and as much as you want to like it, chances are you won't find much to admire other than the pretty pictures.
"Waking Life" opened Fri., Nov. 9 at Landmark's Oriental Theatre. Click here for showtimes.
