The Influences of 'Inception'

As a cinema enthusiast who grew up enamored of directors from Nicholas Roeg to George Lucas, Christopher Nolan said, “I’m mindful of the great filmmakers I carry with me.” That mélange of influences manifests itself in many ways in “Inception.” But as with any dream, who’s to say exactly where it came from? “Who knows?” Mr. Nolan said. “These things aren’t always conscious. Sometimes these things are suggested to you, and afterwards you go: ‘Oh, yeah. Maybe he’s got a point.’ I try not to be conscious in my influences. I try and just do what feels right.” Here, at least, are a few of the filmmakers he knowingly drew upon for “Inception.” DAVE ITZKOFF