MIRROR MASK

An Explosion of Visual Delights!

March 8th, 2006

In desperation for something new and unique to watch I picked up Mirror Mask at the old video store the other night. Man, what a relief from the litany of do-nothing boring films that viewers have been presented with by the film industry this year. This one is a true sleeper and is an absolute must see for the CGI cone sour. Released in September of 2005, it's a crime that this film didn't receive at least a nomination for visual effects for the Academy. I personally have yet to see a movie so driven by its art direction and style. Of course the imagery, which I could talk about for an hour, only compliments a great story line. While confusing at times, the pieces slowly fall in place around you. I'm not one to give you a complete synopsis of the movie, I hate that about most reviewers, but I can give you the basic plot. It's about a young 15 year old girl, Helena played by Stephanie Leonidas, who grew up in a small family circus. That strange and bizarre upbringing helps the character adjust quickly to the Alice in Wonderland type adventure that she's about to embark on. I definitely would like to give my hats off to director Dave

McKlean for this truly innovative work and to Sony Pictures for continuing to support such non-traditional films. You'll find time for ONE BATHROOM BREAK during the beginning of the film but after that you'd better hope that you didn't have Mexican for dinner.

- Richard Okelberry, Managing Editor