Lisa Joy's debut feature Reminiscence is a triumph of atmospheric storytelling and conceptual daring that brims with philosophical intrigue from the first frame.
Hugh Jackman stars in the neo-noir universe as a private detective of the mind, guiding his clients on immersive journeys into memory with Rebecca Ferguson as his seductive muse.
Joy uses the mystery of a missing woman to create a sci-fi romantic odyssey about love, loss and humanity's struggle to find purpose in a dark future seemingly devoid of nature and nostalgia.
Reminiscence dazzles technically, from its dystopian Miami flooded as a result of climate change, to the hypnotic flashback sequences that masterfully materialize Joy's vision.
But it excels in fostering a profound discussion about time and how clinging to the joys of the past can both heal and harm.
While some question its circumvolutions, I think Reminiscence's ambition to use emotional science fiction as a vehicle for its big ideas far outweighs any minor flaws.
It is a unique work in its time, addressing current concerns through a fascinating genre lens.
With Reminiscence, Lisa Joy confirms herself as an important new voice in adventure cinema, reaching intellectual and emotional levels at an even pace. I can't wait to see where she takes us next in her journey of exploring what it means to be human.
Reminiscence did, however, find an international audience, grossing a respectable $15 million domestically against its $68 million budget. Overseas it grossed $17 million.
Its cult reputation is growing by the day among discerning genre and arthouse moviegoers who see it repeatedly.
