Memento (2000)
Kernel Score: 96% · 15,964 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Mystery, Thriller
Released: 2000-10-11
Runtime: 113 minutes
Is Memento worth watching?
Must-watch. A revenge thriller told in reverse, so you're as confused as the hero, who can't form new memories. It's clever, bleak and rewards a second viewing, and it puts you inside his head.
Watch it if you
- like puzzles that need your full attention
- enjoy films with unreliable narrators
- want a thriller with a real twist on structure
Skip it if you
- dislike confusing or non-linear stories
- want a feel-good ending
Best for: Solo night, no phone
Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.
Where to watch Memento
- Stream: Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Peacock, Sundance Now
- Free with ads: The CW, Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome, The Roku Channel
- Rent: Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, Fandango At Home
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Leonard Shelby is tracking down the man who raped and murdered his wife. The difficulty of locating his wife's killer, however, is compounded by the fact that he suffers from a rare, untreatable form of short-term memory loss. Although he can recall details of life before his accident, Leonard cannot remember what happened fifteen minutes ago, where he's going, or why.
Movies like Memento
If you liked Memento, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- The Prestige (2006) — 95%: Same director, with twisty structure and unreliable truth
- Inception (2010) — 91%: Nolan film with a layered, mind-bending plot
- Shutter Island (2010) — 91%: Mystery where the hero's grip on reality slips
- Se7en (1995) — 92%: Dark, methodical mystery with a bleak ending
- Oldboy (2003) — 89%: Revenge story with a shocking reveal
- Lost Highway (1997) — 85%: Disorienting, dreamlike noir about identity
Director
Cast
- Guy Pearce as Leonard
- Carrie-Anne Moss as Natalie
- Joe Pantoliano as Teddy
- Mark Boone Junior as Burt
- Russ Fega as Waiter
- Jorja Fox as Leonard's Wife
- Stephen Tobolowsky as Sammy
- Harriet Sansom Harris as Mrs. Jankis
- Thomas Lennon as Doctor
- Callum Keith Rennie as Dodd
Memento FAQ
Is Memento worth watching?
Must-watch. A revenge thriller told in reverse, so you're as confused as the hero, who can't form new memories. It's clever, bleak and rewards a second viewing, and it puts you inside his head.
Where can I watch Memento?
In the US you can stream Memento on Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Peacock and Sundance Now, watch it free with ads on The CW, Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome and The Roku Channel and rent it from Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube and Fandango At Home.
What is Memento rated?
Memento is rated R.
What movies are like Memento?
If you liked Memento, try The Prestige, Inception, Shutter Island and Se7en.