After having seen Gerry last year, and having watched the trailer for Elephant about ten times in two days, I know hes on something I really love about film: Meditation on time. Its also about creating the right atmosphere, and i must say Gerry does that magnificently. 
Sounds like this one is kind of the third in a unofficial trilogy, hope to see Elephant this year (have bought the DVD), along with his newest when/if it comes to German theaters.
Thanks for the fine review.