Review of '21' and Its Time Displacement Confusion

Introduction

Recently, I decided to watch the film '21' with minimal expectations, given its mixed reception and dated cinematography. Unfortunately, the experience was not what I had hoped for, and it left me feeling bewildered and somewhat disappointed.

One of the most striking aspects of '21' is its unique narrative structure, which switches between two different time periods. This non-linear storytelling is implemented with the intention of highlighting various challenges and societal changes. However, the execution left me questioning the consistency and cohesiveness of the film's timeline.

As the story begins in the 1960s and then abruptly leaps to the mid-21st century, the viewer is left in a state of confusion. The film attempts to contrast social and technological changes, yet the time shifts are not clearly defined, making it challenging to follow the plot and characters' journeys. Despite the presence of advanced technology like cellphones and Google Earth, the narrative struggles to bridge the significant gaps without explanation.

Time Displacement: A Double-Edged Sword

The use of time displacement in '21' is a bold narrative choice intended to showcase the evolution of society. However, this technique often backfires, leading to a disjointed and occasionally frustrating viewing experience. The film's creators may have been trying to emphasize the rapid changes over a long period, but the lack of clear delineation between time periods detracts from the effectiveness of the message.

The abrupt jumps between time frames make it difficult for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story. When a film's temporal structure is not well-executed, it can lead to a sense of disorientation. In '21', this disorientation is further compounded by the film's attempt to comment on contemporary issues without a clear connection to the past.

Technological Anachronisms and Their Impact

One of the most jarring elements of '21' is the presence of modern technology in what should be set in the 1960s. Cellphones and Google Earth are ubiquitous in the film's depiction of the present day, yet they seem out of place in the earlier time periods. While this infused a sense of contrast and innovation, it also highlighted the time displacement and made it harder to suspend disbelief.

The juxtaposition of 1960s settings with technologically advanced devices can be jarring for viewers, especially those who are familiar with the historical context of the era. This anachronism disrupts the narrative flow and can detract from the immersion required for a compelling viewing experience.

Conclusion: A Thought-Provoking Yet Disappointing Film

While '21' aims to explore societal changes and the departure from traditional norms, its execution falls short in terms of narrative coherence and engagement. The time displacement and the technology usage are intriguing concepts, but they are not effectively translated into a cohesive and watchable film.

If you find films that play with time and place interesting, you might be intrigued by '21'. However, I would caution that a deep engagement with the film's themes and narrative might be overshadowed by the inconsistencies and disorienting structure. It is worth watching if you are looking for a thought-provoking experience, but the ultimate verdict depends on how much you can tolerate the narrative confusion.