Understanding Films with Multiple Watchings: The Art of Rewatching Movies

Have you ever found yourself rewatching a movie just to grasp the full depth of its narrative? Perhaps you just saw Alien: Resurrection, and you're still pondering over its intricate plot and characters. Rewatching is a form of critical thinking applied to films, allowing us to appreciate the layers and nuances that might elude our first-time viewing.

The Best Rewatch: Alien: Resurrection

Alien: Resurrection is one of those films that warrants a second viewing. As an alien fan, I've recently finished watching it for the second time and still have questions that need answering. If you're a fan of the Alien series but haven't seen this one yet, no spoilers here. It's the best film in the series, and I hope we see more. Watch it at home in complete darkness, cranked up loud, and consider turning on closed captions to better understand the British accents and dialogue.

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Why Rewatch?

Practically any movie can be better understood on a second watch.

A great example of a genuinely confusing film that needs a second watch is The Room (2004). There are so many details that are worth paying close attention to; it's near impossible to catch them all in one viewing. The process of finding these details is much more entertaining than the story itself.

The Principle Behind Critical Thinking in Films

The principle here is that of critical thinking applied to films. This means that some films are designed to be better appreciated when viewed multiple times. They often have layers and subplots that enhance our understanding and enjoyment.

Enhancing Understanding: Puzzle Films

During the 1990s to the 2000s, there was a trend in films known as puzzle films, which were made to be critically analyzed over several viewings. These films require more than a casual watch and benefit from multiple viewings. Some notable examples include:

Run Lola Run – A film where every second feels like a life-and-death decision, rewarding viewers for multiple viewings to catch all the twists and turns. The Sixth Sense – This psychological thriller reveals its layers only through repeated viewings. Donnie Darko – A mysterious and complex narrative that gains depth with every rewatch. 24 Hour Party People – A film that benefits from a second viewing to fully appreciate its detailed portrayal of the Manchester music scene in the 1980s.

Other Films Designed for Multiple Watchings

There are many other films from various eras that are well-suited for multiple viewing. Some of these include:

Memento – Directed by Christopher Nolan, this memory-reversing mystery film is a classic of puzzle films. Following – Nolan’s debut film, which explores themes of surveillance and narrative structure, is a masterclass in critical viewing. Irreversible – This French film is a chaotic and intelligent exploration of trauma, requiring multiple viewings to fully grasp its structure and themes. Pulp Fiction – This pop-culture landmark rewards viewers for multiple viewings with its non-linear narrative and interwoven plotlines. Fight Club – David Fincher's adaptation of Chuck Palahniuk's novel is a complex critique of masculinity and society, gaining depth with each rewatch.

Conclusion: Rewatching is Essential for Appreciation

It's clear that the experience of watching a film for a second, third, or even fourth time can be incredibly rewarding. Rewatching is a critical part of understanding and appreciating certain films. For some, the extra layers and nuances discovered on a second viewing might not be worth the effort, but for others, it's a fun and enriching experience.

So, the next time you're faced with a movie that you're eager to rewatch, dive in and explore its depths. You might be surprised by what you discover!