After various failed attempts at catching a showing of this at local independent film theaters, I finally found the DVD on sale on Candian Amazon.com (whoda thought?). Being a huge Guy Maddin fan, I cannot explain my anticipation for this film.
It is a difficult one to get into--you plunge instantly into Maddin's wonderful and bizarre psyche, and you do not leave until the snow stops blowing on the soundtrack and the credits roll to the film's haunting instrumental music. His trademark patchwork, kaleidoscopic style of editing and plotting is evident from this point, although it is slightly more restrained; only in select sequences does he harken to the silent film, frenzied montage style of his previous work. This is a more focused Maddin, albeit a more reflective and meditative one. His power of observation and his peculiar outlook and comparisons are demonstrated mostly through his poetic, longing narration (which he records himself, a very personal touch).
In a library of almost uncomfortably intimate films, this is by far his most personal. Every emotion that Maddin feels is felt by the viewer; every event that is described is visualized brilliantly as well. It is a film of uncanny power, and it is ambitious in its delivery--how is it possible to pull off a documentary on a city's history/his own personal languishment? Maddin manages the difficult task perfectly, infusing every aspect of his character used in his films thus far, and including parts untouched as of yet; it is a passage into his mind, and it is a hypnotizing experience.
If you are not a fan of Maddin, the film may be too much; it is surrealist and incredibly strange, and difficult to stomach if you are not in agreement of his very unique sensibilites. It also helps to have background on his previous films and on his general story, because it increases your understanding of the movie as a whole. However, it is highly recommended. From its dreamy opening to Maddin's heartbreaking final lament, it is an impelling film, deeply nostalgic and quietly powerful.