Rent Southland Tales (2006)

Again with the 4th dimension! - Southland Tales review by CP Customer

I was a big fan of Donnie Darko, but for me Southland Tales is a poor follow up to Richard Kelly's 2001 cult classic. Much like Donnie Darko, Southland Tales is again and apocalyptic tale of a freak tear in space and time where a parallel universe will cause the end of the world, but where Darko was dark and insular pulling the viewer into the story and characters within, Southland Tales is the complete opposite, bright and open, almost keeping you at arm’s length throughout the film; and even if you didn’t get Donnie Darko after the first viewing, you wanted to understand what you had just seen. With Southland Tales when all the pieces fall into place and you understand what was happening and what the characters represented, you pretty much don't care. You have to admire Kelly for not compromising and making a mainstream film, but the trouble is that his story is far too epic for its modest $18 million budget. The cast is also a letdown, made up of various Hollywood B-listers and bit part actors, with only Seann William Scott really standing out as the best performance. If you liked Donnie Darko then it’s worth a look, otherwise give it a miss.

After Donnie Darko - Southland Tales review by CP Customer

Richard Kelly gives us Southland Tales. I would suspect many will be reading this because of Donnie Darko, wishing to know what the director did next.

Southland Tales is not easy viewing, having seen it a few times now even I cannot summarise its events into a logical form. However the ride itself is very interesting and enjoyable. A decent cast in roles that you would not normally associate with the actors involved. Ultimately it make not make much sense but without the promise of a directors cut, this is the nearest we'll get to the mystery. Think of a modern day Lynch, if you enjoyed Mulholland Drive etc, then this maybe for you.