“Tenet” is the latest film from director Christopher Nolan. With the film finally seeing release in theaters (after being pushed back from its initial July release date due to concerns over COVID-19), it’s not only a great film to help welcome audiences back; but another spectacular film from a talented filmmaker.
The story follows an unnamed CIA operative (John David Washington), who is part of a unit tasked with trying to prevent World War III from breaking out. Armed with the word “tenet” as part of their skill set, the race is on to stop a deadly weapon from being unleashed with the help of a knighted MI6 contact (Michael Caine); a charming arms dealer (Robert Pattinson); and an enigmatic woman (Rachel McAdams), in what’s easily Nolan’s most mind bending and unique film since “Inception” ten years ago.
In many ways, the film can be seen as a spiritual successor to “Inception” while also recalling “The Prestige.” The method of “inversion” presents a unique take on time travel and provides a myriad of impressive action scenes over the span of 150 minutes. The film opens on a pulse-pounding skirmish at the International Opera House in Ukraine, and the intensity continues throughout the film. From a high-octane car chase on the streets of London to a multi-tiered final battle in a Poland rock quarry; this $200 million production shows that practical action is alive and well in a post-CG age. One notable scene features a plane being crashed into a hangar on land.
Above all, “Tenet” is another fantastic film from Nolan and a great choice to help ease back into theaters. If you’re able to make it, it’s highly recommended to check out.
- Written and Directed by Christopher Nolan
- Starring John David Washington, Michael Caine, Robert Pattinson and Rachel McAdams
- Rated PG-13
- My Rating: *****/5
