Dark City was one of those strange films that really caught my attention from the opening scene to the end credits. The dark, grainy world created by writer/director Alex Proyas is fascinating. The grays and blues that are supposed to portray a depressing world come off so beautifully on film. And I loved the way the shadows danced between the worlds of reality and perception. This film really had a lot to offer.
John Murdoch (Rufus Sewell) awakens in a motel room with no memory and accompanied by a recently deceased woman's body (Melissa George). As he is pursued by the police, Murdoch stumbles into a world controlled by a group of pale skinned "people" with the ability to construct and reconstruct the world any way they wish. This includes manipulating the memories of every person alive.
Murdoch's memories start to return as he discovers his wife played by the gorgeous and incredibly talented Jennifer Connelly is singing in a lounge and has no recollection of him. This only serves to thicken the plot as Murdoch is being sought by not only these strange figures, but also by police Inspector Frank Bumstead (William Hurt). Twists and turns a plenty as Murdoch tries to uncover the mystery in his lost memories, who is murdering these women, and who are these men who hold all of the power in this Dark City.
The most compelling character, in my opinion, is Dr. Daniel P. Schreber, played absolutely wonderfully by Kiefer Sutherland. This is a role I never thought I'd see Kiefer in, but he played it so strangely that it was one of his most memorable roles to me. It seems that Dr. Schreber is the only one who knows the secrets of the mystery men, Murdoch's lost memories, and everything else. Dr. Schreber has served as a kind of liaison between the people living in the city and the strange figures controlling them. But can he help Murdoch unravel his past before the strangers discover his plan?
Every night at midnight, the city falls asleep and this gives the strange men the opportunity to manipulate everyone the way they see fit. Dr. Schreber concocts a serum that is able to erase and implant new memories into anyone. This serum has the ability to change a millionaire into a school janitor, or a homeless woman into a housewife. Which makes it hard for Murdock to distinguish between real memories and implanted ones as he starts to see his own story in a series of flashback.
I love this film, although it is a bit strange. I know that it's definitely not every one's cup of tea. It is, however, worth the watch just for the beauty and stellar performances. Not recommended for those under 16 as there is a bit of nudity and some violence.
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