This adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s 1977 novel is alternately fascinating and meandering. Richard Linklater’s direction is typically fluid, and his use of rotoscoping means the movie has a distinct visual identity via its experimental technique, but the characters just aren’t very interesting. Keanu Reeves is wooden in the lead and it’s often hard to figure out exactly what emotion he’s attempting to convey, which makes the twisty narrative difficult to follow. Luckily, supporting players Robert Downey Jr, Woody Harrelson and Winona Ryder are on hand to keep things moving along, and they bring a spark to life to the otherwise rote proceedings. In the end, “A Scanner Darkly” is memorable thanks to the source material and Linklater’s use of rotoscoping, even as it never really comes alive.
Rating: ★★★ (out of 5)
Pop Culture Thoughts 
This one was quite interesting. I liked how the story was presented and we slowly learned more about the world. The conclusion was very nicely handled. All and all, one worth giving a watch to.
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I think I wanted to like it more than I did, I found it thematically interesting… but that’s from the book. I dunno…
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I’ve never read the book. While this one is never going to be a favourite movie ever, I definitely found it interesting and distinct enough that I remember it instantly.
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I’ll confess, I’ll always have a bit of a soft spot for it because I love me some Winona Ryder lol
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Winona did have some great roles. I will admit I tend to try most movies she makes an appearance in. I may not end up loving the movie, but I always enjoy seeing her as different characters.
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Same…. She’s gone from unique movie star to fascinating character actress
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