Memoria begins with a jolt – an explosive sound that pierces the silence and etches its way into Jessica’s (Tilda Swinton) consciousness. Directed by the enigmatic Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul, known for his surreal and Palme d’Or-winning works, this film is far from conventional jump-scare tactics. Instead, it weaves a fascinating mystery that delves into the human experience, transcending traditional narrative resolutions.
As Jessica embarks on a quest to unearth the source of the mysterious sound, the film takes the audience on a mesmerizing odyssey from bustling urban recording studios to the depths of the Colombian jungle. Weerasethakul’s direction allows ample space for human interactions to flourish, creating an atmospheric piece that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
A standout scene features Jessica collaborating with an audio engineer (Juan Pablo Urrego) as they endeavor to recreate the haunting sound. Reminiscent of sonic puzzles seen in classics like Blow Out and The Conversation, the precision of their work and the artistry of studio-editing captivate the audience with patient adoration. Another enthralling moment unfolds by a forest river, where a man (Elkin Díaz) meticulously prepares fish, as the natural rhythms intertwine, evoking a beguiling trance.
While Memoria brilliantly envelops the audience in an atmosphere of growing insomnia and unease, it occasionally meanders into a more languid pace. Moments of heightened mystery, such as encounters with possible time travelers and strange aircraft, are intriguing yet can momentarily disrupt the film’s captivating spell. Nevertheless, it is during everyday interactions, amid ominous art galleries, lurking dogs, and sterile mortuaries, where the sense of unease swells. These moments punctuate the film as Jessica, an outsider, delves deeper into the heart of Colombia and its people.
Designed to be experienced on the big screen with thunderous audio, Memoria takes audiences on an unquantifiable and hypnotic sonic journey, offering an incomparable cinematic experience from the singular voice of Weerasethakul.