More Everything!

I skipped ahead in my list, so I could watch a film that I remember being so excited about 10 years ago; I was curious to see if I would still find the film as exciting as I remembered. Timecode is Mike Figgis’ grand experiment in digital filmaking, utilizing 4 hand-held cameras, we are simultaneously shown (via a 4-way split screen) the events taking place one afternoon in and around a LA production office. All in one take; no cuts. The version we are watching, was actually the 15th version filmed.

The one thing I will say about Timecode, is that it demands your attention! You are forced to pay attention the entire time, if you want to have any semblance of what is going on. Figgis tries to help as he raises and lowers the sound mix from the different screens to help you focus on one screen.

Unfortunately, what is going on most of the time, is a pretty formulaic soap opera of Hollywood, Lesbianism, Alcoholism, Drugs, Earthquakes, etc, etc, etc… The biggest saving grace of this film, is Stellan Skarsgard -  he dominates this film and makes me wish he did more challenging material these days (no more Mamma Mia crap!) I also enjoyed Saffron Burrows - but I think Figgis enjoys watching his Muse do anything, even if it is just a static shot of her looking beautful for 10 minutes.

In conclusion, this film is the definition of style over substance. The excitement of this new type of film making can help you overlook the contrived story, but, I am not sure if I will be able to handle many more repeat viewings. I think Roger Ebert summed it up best (as he usually does) in his review:

“Timecode” has a place in the history of the movies. But now I want to see Figgis cut back to one camera (digital if he must), resume editing and conduct experiments that are more likely to arouse my sense of awe than my sense of timing.”

Keeping this one in the discard list.