As any fan of Philip K. Dick would know, his books are often turned into very bizarre films that have little to do with his original work. Films like "Total Recall," "Minority Report," and "Bladerunner," while remaining true to the feel of Mr. Dick, often take their own spin on the characters and events. "A Scanner Darkly" does not do this; it is faithful even after the credits start rolling.



In "Waking Life," Richard Linklater proved he was an admirer of Philip K. Dick, so it makes sense that he would one day adapt a novel of his for the screen. This adaptation is flawless. Like all adaptations, it has to cut back on some of the details, but the plot remains exactly the same and the mundane details are not lost. The rotoscoped, cell-shaded world was a brilliant decision for the subject matter, as it adds to the trippy nature of the material. Linklater did take one liberty with the plot but, in my opinion, it made the story that much more significant (you'll have to read the book THEN watch the movie to figure out what that is).



As for the cast, I can't think of anyone better suited to play strung-out, drugged-up losers than the ones in this movie. Keanu Reeves as the narc narcing on himself? Perfect. Robert Downery Jr. as the idiot who thinks he's a genius? Brilliant. Woodey Harrelson as the innocent druggie bystander? Excellent. And Winona Ryder as the coke-loving babe? Oh yeah. This cast delivers and connects.



In short, this movie is one of the better movies made in the past decade. It's depiction of a drug-filled life is hilarious, and then intensely depressing. Dick adds a post-script that Linklater left in the film that eulogizes his good friends that he lost to drugs. This film is fantastic and funny, but it is not the most uplifting of films. Conspiracy and identity-issues riddle its complex plot, leading up to an amazing climax. You'll have to see it to understand it. Well, you might have to see it a couple times.