The Movie: Alex and Eric arrive at Watt High School, the other students completely unaware of their intentions for the day. After warning a student called John that "heavy sh*t's about to go down," they proceed to enter the school and go on a killing spree, taking out a number of students and teachers before finally meeting up again in the school's cafeteria. What Makes It Original: Originally intended as a documentary about the Columbine High School massacre of 1999, Gus Van Sant opted instead for a fictional reenactment which nevertheless feels almost documentary-like in its execution. Playing out in near-real time and shot through with lingering tracking shots and long takes, Elephant uses a cast of non-professional actors to create a feel of verisimilitude which blurs the line between reality and fiction. It's is both a powerful indictment of violence and an intelligent study in the role cinema can play in reflecting life.
