Is Ricochet Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1984)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Ricochet, a standout production of 1984, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Documentary, Music landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Ricochet provides a behind-the-scenes portrait of David Bowie during his 1983 Serious Moonlight Tour. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary, Music are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Ricochet provides a behind-the-scenes portrait of David Bowie during his 1983 Serious Moonlight Tour. Filmed on location in Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong, this film includes live performances of “Fame,” “Look Back in Anger,” “Heroes” and “Ricochet.” Ricochet was previously released to home video in 1984 in a shorter version, separately from the Serious Moonlight video. It was later reissued as an extra with the 2006 DVD reissue of Serious Moonlight."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The performance by David Bowie is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. David Bowie captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Gerry Troyna is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 78 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Ricochet truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, Music, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 9/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Ricochet explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1984 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Gerry Troyna respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Ricochet is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of David Bowie or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Ricochet is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.