WERCKMEISTER HARMONIES (2000)
Boy, did I not see this movie coming.  But, then, nobody could.  The basic story of Bela Tarr's Werckmeister Harmonies is of a small town anticipating a terrible event.  Nobody really explains what it is or why it's coming; the only thing that anybody knows- or cares- about is simply that it is coming.  In a town like this, it's probably best not to ask questions.  It is a strange, surreal little city, shown to us in long, steady takes.  Tarr creates a striking film of slow, measured beauty.  As the camera pans through the town, following the characters as they lurch toward their own doom, there is a sad, mournful quality to the proceedings; as if the inhabitants are grieving over events that haven't happened yet.  This is a film that requires full immersion from the viewer.  With a haunting soundtrack that perfectly compliments the heartbreaking imagery, Werckmeister Harmonies will stay with you for the rest of your life.