08th Aug 2003
The Backwards Narrative
Like many of the reviewers, I was quite impressed with the 2000 film Memento, in large part thanks to its “innovative” backwards narration format. But then tonight, I saw a Fox rerun of “The Betrayal” episode of Seinfeld, from 1997, where Jerry, George and Elaine go to India for a wedding, and — guess what — it’s told BACKWARDS. This just confirms my theory that all things in life were represented in nine seasons of Seinfeld (which I watch obsessively in syndication, having been out of the country during much of the original run of the series).
Best moment in the episode, the last 30 seconds, flashing back to 11 years earlier, when Jerry is first moving into his appartment and Kramer comes across the hall to greet him and asks if he can help Jerry with anything. Paraphrasing:
Jerry: No, thanks, I’m fine. But I just ordered a pizza. Why don’t join me.
Kramer: No, that’s okay, I wouldn’t want to impose.
Jerry: Don’t be silly. We’re neighbors. What’s mine is yours.
Kramer: [Pausing to look around the apartment] … Really?
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