Ryan Coogler Highlights Christopher Nolan’s Early Film "Following" as a Must-Watch
In a recent segment on Criterion Closet, acclaimed director Ryan Coogler extolled the virtues of Christopher Nolan’s lesser-known film, Following. Made in 1998, Following marked Nolan’s directorial debut and preceded his breakout success with Memento. Coogler’s praise positions this black-and-white indie film as a vital piece of cinema that fans of Nolan should not overlook.
A Glimpse at "Following"
Following tells the story of a young writer who stalks strangers in London for inspiration but soon finds himself entangled in a web of crime and deceit. With a budget of around $6,000 and a production timeline spanning over a year, the film is considerably modest compared to Nolan’s later, grand-scale blockbusters like The Dark Knight trilogy. Nevertheless, the film serves as an early indicator of Nolan’s unique storytelling voice, characterized by intricate and non-linear narratives.
Coogler emphasized the significance of character-driven stories in his review, stating that "while the movie might not deliver the same sweeping scale Nolan has become known for, it is a perfect movie to see him building his filmmaking voice." Notably, Following incorporates several hallmark traits of Nolan’s filmmaking, including a non-linear narrative that reveals essential plot points through a series of flashbacks, culminating in a powerful and classic Nolan ending filled with twists.
Themes and Techniques in "Following"
Nolan’s exploration of time and perspective is particularly evident in the film’s structure. The filmmaker is known for his complex narratives, and Following is no different in employing a format that oscillates between different timelines. The film’s denouement strategically intercuts between scenes from a police interview and significant moments from the protagonist’s journey, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that has since become a signature Nolan technique.
Interestingly, Nolan reused the main character’s name, Cobb, for Leonardo DiCaprio’s character in Inception, suggesting a thematic continuation across his filmography. This detail points to how Following’s essence continues to influence Nolan’s work, further prompting fans to explore this earlier project.
Ryan Coogler’s Admiration for Nolan
In his Critierion Closet appearance, Coogler not only championed Following but also labeled Nolan as one of his mentors in the film industry. He described both Nolan and his wife, Emma Thomas, as "lovers of cinema," indicating a deep respect for their contributions to filmmaking. The collaboration and mentorship between established and emerging filmmakers serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness in the film industry—an ethos that Coogler has embodied throughout his career as seen with films like Fruitvale Station and Black Panther.
The Significance of the Connection
Coogler’s journey mirrors that of Nolan’s—from modest beginnings in indie filmmaking to establishing themselves in the mainstream. Just as Following and Memento laid the groundwork for Nolan’s storied career, Coogler’s earlier work paved the way for his recognition in Hollywood. Projects like Creed and Black Panther demonstrate his ability to marry personal narratives with broad appeal, reminiscent of Nolan’s trajectory.
As Coogler continues to evolve as a filmmaker, the relationship between his journey and Nolan’s serves as an exciting lens through which audiences can anticipate future works. Discussions around Following underscore the importance of revisiting earlier films, reminding viewers that cinematic masterpieces can emerge from humble beginnings.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation in Filmmaking
Ryan Coogler’s endorsement of Following shines a light on the significance of this film not only in Nolan’s career but also in shaping modern storytelling techniques in cinema. As both filmmakers navigate their paths in the industry, their interconnected stories and shared experiences represent a rich tapestry that continues to evolve. For those who appreciate the nuance of storytelling, Coogler’s emphasis on Following may just inspire a new generation of viewers and filmmakers to delve deeper into Nolan’s impressive body of work, reminding audiences that every master was once a novice.
