Memento is the key to understanding Christopher Nolan’s obsession with time

There are common elements in many of Christopher Nolan’s films: the presence of Cillian Murphy, a Hans Zimmer score, and visual spectacle best seen on IMAX. But the element that repeats itself the most is Nolan’s obsession with time as both a storytelling device and filmmaking trick. That fixation began with his 2001 breakthrough film Memento, which Nolan wrote and directed. Released 25 years ago on March 16, 2001, Memento remains the key to understanding the techniques and themes Nolan has explored throughout his career.