Documentary filmmaker Ari Folman delves deeply into his own history as a soldier in the Lebanon War to produce this tremendously powerful movie, presented in the form of an animated documentary.One night at a bar, an old friend tells Folman about a recurring nightmare in which he is chased by 26 vicious dogs. Every night, the same number of beasts. The two men conclude that there’s a connection to their Israeli Army mission in the first Lebanon War of the early eighties. Ari is surprised that he can’t remember a thing about that period of his life. Intrigued by this riddle, he decides to meet and interview old friends and comrades around the world. He needs to discover the truth about that time and about himself. As Ari delves deeper and deeper into the mystery, his memory begins to creep up on him in the form of surreal images.
From its vibrant opening sequence of the baying pack of hounds, all burning eyes and slavering jaws, the film’s muscular but haunting visual style jolts us into engagement far more effectively than any more conventional approach would achieve. Folman’s considerable experience as a documentary maker serves him and his material well, his storytelling skills building a cohesive narrative from his own recollections and those of his friends.Waltz With Bashir is a visually stunning, emotionally enthralling and mesmerising from start to finish.It will be screened in Storm Cinemas (051-309110) on Tuesday March 10th at 8.30pm.Further information available fromwww.waterfordfilmforall.comand 086-203 6442.
