7. Following (1998)
A directors first film is always interesting, showing their raw talent before outside influence takes hold. Following, Nolans first feature, tells the story of a struggling writer who takes to stalking random members of the public for inspiration. Its a cracking film told in a surprisingly non-linear narrative, albeit rather short and with clearly inexperienced actors. What is probably Nolans least seen work is definitely one that more people should check out, particularly for the Batman symbol on Bills door; an accidental and humorous foreshadowing. It's easy to see the influence it has had on his later works. Inception may seem the obvious link, with a robber named Cobb and one scene having a character sneak through a kitchen to then go on and steal the contents of a safe. But it is Memento, which directly followed Following, that it shares the most with. Both films follow similar plot beats, with various threads running through and tying together well before the end, allowing room for a final twist. The non-linear narrative told through multiple different strands makes a lot more sense in Memento, as in Following it feels present just to give a sense of mystery to events. Similarities exist stylistically too, with the complete fade to black and pause between changes in time and the use of black and white film stock, used to keep costs down, which here gives the film a cold, unforgiving tone. The film emulates Film Noir in a modern setting very well, with some camera angles that would feel well at home in the forties, but also has its own distinct style; you can see the directors one to watch. From here on in, all the films are, in my opinion, worthy of a full five star rating. The next three are, to some degree interchangeable and have been placed in their order based on my current personal opinion.