Source - Mubi
Owing to the ongoing buzz around Loop Lapeta, it only seems fair to pay a visit to the original version of the film that gained itself a cult following around the world due to its quintessential dive into the "time-bending" genre.
Introduction
Film: Run Lola Run
Director: Tom Tykwer
Genre: Thriller, Action, Crime, Drama
Duration: 1h 21m
Screenplay: Tom Tykwer
Cast: Franka Potente, Moritz Bleibtreu, Herbert Knaup
Language: German
Plot Synopsis: No Spoilers!
Lola has 20 minutes to bring 100,000 DM to her boyfriend or he robs a store. If the money is not returned, there will be consequences. We see three possible scenarios, depending on Lola's encounters.
Film Review
Run Lola Run's opening credits feature the entire cast lined up for what seems to resemble a group of convicts getting their mug shots taken. It is made clear from a very early point in the film that this production is going to be experimental, quirky, and above all, fun.
The narrative structure is one of the most celebrated aspects of the film. It is empirical for films dealing with time to opt for a non-linear timeline, but in this production's case, the beauty of the plot is enhanced by the detail-oriented nuances that offer a great contrast to the overall chaotic yet simple plotline.
With a linear series of events, the plot is explored through these tiny details that offer significant information about not just the lead characters but the supporting characters, as well.
Lola, the protagonist is made to embark on a journey that introduces her to different people (sometimes by merely making her jump into them on the street) and showing photo montages of their lives which almost feel like visions, except they are hundred percent real.
These photomontages come full circle in the film when the audience is made to realize the game that is played on the big screen. The game of time loops, or different possible scenarios and different possible outcomes.
One of the most impressive tasks achieved by the film is the fact that it pays attention to the concept of time paradoxes, especially relating to time loops. Which is essential for films with a dash of science fiction.
Run Lola Run irons out every possible mistake that might, even for a second make you believe that it is all a hoax. It takes itself seriously enough to establish and change minute details to explain the turn of events; but it also uses black and white flashback scenes, animation sequences to drive home the essence of style and experimentation.
A major theme or motif showcased throughout the course of the film is that of Time. It can literally be felt through the screen in key moments and acts as an adhesive that holds all the visual elements of the production together.
Be it the sound of a clock ticking in the background or countless close-up shots of minutes passing by on a clock, time plays a huge role in unveiling the tales of Lola and her boyfriend, Manni.
Talking of the lead characters, the cast gives phenomenal performances and doesn't feel out of place for a hot second. The leading lady, Franka Potente portrays Lola with perfection and great conviction. Even the supporting cast begins to gain some liking from the second act, once you start to see more from them.
The technical aspects of Run Lola Run successfully encapsulate the essence of the concept and elevate the viewing experience with the inclusion of thoughtful cinematography, production design, and editing.
With shaky camera work and minimal stable shots, the adrenaline rush that one feels while running is reflected in the shots. The use of props and sets also expresses the attention to detail and enhances the overall quality of the film.
One fine shortcoming that could be however pointed out would be the use of repetitive shots and imagery that some people might not find as interesting as someone who happens to dabble in science fiction and time heists centered films.
My favorite aspect of the film is how it tries to portray the human Inclination to ask questions through its characters and focuses on their quests to find answers. It is a good takeaway from a quirky film that you might want to watch for fun but it raises some pretty good points about the need to know everything so we can in some ways save ourselves, just like the lead characters.
The Bottom Line
Run Lola Run is a type of film that comes at the doorstep of cinema enthusiasts every once in a while and it feels necessary for all the right reasons to explore and exploit such experimental films to show them the love and appreciation that they deserve.
So, in case you want to watch a woman run for her boyfriend's life to earn an insane amount of money in just 20 minutes, be sure to give this one a go.
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Available on: Amazon
Written By: Janshi
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