In Looper, Writor / Director Rian Johnson not only bends time but movie genres. This movie in which mob killer Joe played by Joseph Gordon Levitt seeks to kill his older self (played by Bruce Willis) feels like a collaborative story by Philip K. Dick, Stephen King, and Ira Levin. While the story hinges on a time travel convention, it ultimately becomes a character study about consequence and redemption.
I am not going to dissect this movie, not really review because as it is, the trailer already shows too much. You are better off going and seeing this movie with out any preconceived ideas. One thing I will say is that if you lead with your heart and not your brain, you will really like this movie, maybe even love it. As Joe, the dispassionate cold blooded killer, Levitt puts out such a measured stoic performance. To me, with the subtle make up and his vocal performance I did not even think of him as Joseph Gordon Levitt at all. As the selfish killer and junkie Joe, he is not your typical protagonist. It is through the strength of the narrative and tempo of the story telling that Joe's humanity slowly shows through. As the older Joe, Bruce Willis also pushes some movie boundaries as the story goes to some very, very dark places. A lesser actor of his age and stature might not want to go there. It is nice to see that he is still taking chances.
I love this movie. It is a must see.
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Robb Donker
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