Eden Log

Introduction

A man wakes up in a puddle of mud in an underground cave with the occasional flash of light. He has no idea who he is, where he is or how he got there.

As he explores the cave, he finds a body next to him and inexplicably seems to know his way around. A series of computer screens show heads talking about a company called Eden Log and some men in biological suits are looking for someone who he guesses is him.

During his journey through the cave system towards the surface, he comes across mutants, phantoms and a mysterious woman who agrees to help him to find his identity and the truth behind Eden Log.

Video

A very clear transfer of a very dark film, with colours so muted it's practically monochrome at times.

Audio

The French option has the edge over the English, with atmospheric use of the surrounds and clearer audio overall.

Extra Features

The 29 minute French language making of is pretty comprehensive, with good English subtitles and contains interviews with the principal cast and crew.

Conclusion

I really enjoyed Eden Log. It has the amnesiac protagonist of Dark City and Memento, the visuals and strange subject matter of the Jenet/Caro films City of Lost Children and Delicatessen, and it reminded me a little of Twelve Monkeys.

The narrative is told entirely from Tolbiac's perspective, so you never know more than he does and your journey follows his with each discovery unravelling the mystery bit by bit.

Sadly, Eden Log will never be a mainstream hit, though this is never a measure of quality anyway, but it is a film destined for cult status just as those mentioned above. If you your sci-fi dark, weird and intelligent, this is for you.