Review of Donnie Darko (2001) by Amjad A — 31 Mar 2013

Haunting, provocative, lush, poetic, interesting, eccentric, psychedelic, unusual, BRILLIANT. Donnie Darko is one of the most interesting and creatively thought provoking films I have ever watched. It is so different, yet so interesting.

It divides the audience, you either love it, or you hate it, either way, it was still a tremendous critical success when it came out. The film centers around a highly emotional and troubled teen named Donnie Darko (played by Jake G) who is haunted by a six foot giant blue bunny rabbit.

He hates life and is constantly challenging the world around him. He is associated with a typical surburban American familly. He pays little attention in school and spends his spare time talking to his shrink.

A series of strange and unfortunate events occur once the engine of a plane crashes into his families home, specifically in his room, and from there, the film engages in twists and turns. It deals with adolescent identification, questions about religion, time travel, sex, psychological crisis and life values and ethics.

Evidently, Donnie Darko will leave you dazed and confused and it will usually take more than one viewing for you to appreciate the message the film is trying to get across. It has an interesting cast of characters, Donnies love interest played by Jena Malone, his obnoxious big mouth sister played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, his unique and sarcastic teacher played by Drew Barrymore, and his other annoying and loud mouth teacher, who is played by Beth Grant.

It was the debut film from Richard Kelly and he did an absolutely amazing job with it, His vision shined through like no other. HIGLY RECCOMENDED. A 5 star cult favourite that will leave an impact on you after viewing.