Elephant

E:
I've seen this moobie before several times. It's one of those films in which you don't quite catch everything the first time around. The opening scenes don't prepare you for the events that unfold and ultimately its languorous pace belies its final impact.
Gus Van Sant has made a career out of making art house fare. Some pictures definitely more successful than others. I enjoy his indie stuff. I like a lot of his more mainstream work, too (Good Will Hunting, Finding Forrester, Milk). This one, however, is my favorite Van Sant film.
It's about a day in the life of several high school students. The day takes a turn for the worst.
I love watching these kids. Every little action reveals something about them. So much is conveyed by simple motions, glimpses even hinted at off screen. Van Sant really allows us the time to take it all in; to catch up to his time-bending narrative structure, to remember where everyone stands when the day takes its turn. He gives us a clue as to why it happens and even a glimpse into the culprits' resolve.
Watch it a couple times. It'll surprise you.