Film Overview"Mystery Train" is an iconic 1989 movie written and directed by Jim Jarmusch. The movie comprises 3 separate but interrelated stories that share the area of Memphis, Tennessee, with an unique motif of Elvis Presley and the mystical aura of the titular train. This independent movie resonates styles of cultural displacement, fate, and the archetypical American Dream with an exceptional mix of wistful melancholy and unique humor.
Plot Summary"Mystery Train" continues in 3 sections - 'Far From Yokohama,' 'A Ghost,' and 'Lost in Space.' Each sequence starts with the arrival of the train and provides intertwining stories set in the very same flea-bag hotel, the Arcade Hotel.
In 'Far From Yokohama,' a young Japanese couple, Jun and Mitsuko, remain in Memphis on a rock 'n' roll expedition. They argue about who understands the essence of rock icon, Elvis Presley, better and the true spirituality of Memphis while visiting Sun Studios and Graceland.
The second section, 'A Ghost,' includes an Italian widow, Luisa, who finds herself in Memphis after her partner's unexpected death. She shares a room with a talkative female, Dee Dee, who has left her British partner. During the night, Luisa is checked out by the ghost of Elvis, who imparts mysterious comfort to her in the middle of her mourning.
The last section, 'Lost in Space,' focuses on the aforesaid British boyfriend, Johnny (likewise called Elvis, ironically) who is drunk, despondent, and jobless. After landing in a late-night mishap with his good friend Will Robinson, he winds up in the very same hotel where all characters' thematic and physical courses cross in a weapon incident.
Acting and Style"Mystery Train" showcases exceptional performances from the primary cast, consisting of Masatoshi Nagase, Youki Kudoh, Nicoletta Braschi, Elizabeth Bracco, and Joe Strummer. The film wonderfully portrays the converging and divergence of cultural truths, merging Eastern and Western sensibilities seamlessly.
Jarmusch's vision as a director in the "Mystery Train" stands out by the use of dynamic cinematic color, particularly the repeating red colors that act as themes, the sluggish but consistent pacing, and an iconic long-shot recording design. This, integrated with a laconic narrative imbued with dry humor and self-questioning, resonates with Jarmusch's underlying melancholy of American culture and the alienation experienced by strangers in a strange land.
Reflection and ReceptionThe movie strongly catches the mystical aura of Memphis, with the haunting musical score by John Lurie adding depth to its emotional landscape. "Mystery Train" casts a dream-like spell, checking out themes of cultural identity, displacement, and connection through the shared love for music and America's cultural symbolism.
"Mystery Train" got crucial honor for its special structure, character-driven story, and visual aesthetics. It was recognized by the National Society of Film Critics, and Jarmusch took home Best Artistic Contribution at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival. The movie maintains traditional status in independent film circles with its captivating gaze over the cross-cultural crossway of human experiences.
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