When I first saw this movie’s cover, I didn’t know what to make of it, much less what to expect out of the film itself. That strange image of a kid with a wiry, skeletal body surrounded by seemingly-digital writing and this gaping hole in his chest; is it some kind of science fiction? Is it something horrific? Is it something otherworldly?
Truth is, Donnie Darko is all of those things in its own distinctive way. It’s a high-school drama, wrapped up in an eerie, surreal, mysterious type of sci-fi overtone. This might actually go down as the one and only school drama where time travel and tangent universes factor into the kid’s life. The science is kept to a minimum, focusing more on story and character development. In spite of that, the film is pretty evenly paced – not too fast and not too slow – with a particular emphasis on crafting an atmosphere that’s simultaneously creepy, otherworldly, and perhaps somewhat spiritual in nature. It makes for an experience unlike any other.
The story for this is pretty odd, and without a whole lot of straight or concrete answers, the film will come off as weird and confusing. It definitely requires some thought and interpretation to fully comprehend. But even if you don’t spare that type of attention, the drama scenes can stand really well on its own (if it wasn’t for the time traveling stuff, this would simply be a story about a confused and angry teenage boy). Characters are pretty strong and endearing. Through their interactions and dialogue, greater themes of spirituality emerge, which not only adds depth to the story but also ties together the looser elements of the story into one tight package. Overall, despite being enigmatic, the story is as deep and tightly-constructed as it is interesting.
Despite its low budget, the film has some very interesting photography and editing, and I find it quite invoking in some areas. Acting is swell: Jake Gyllenhaal is effectively perfect as the title role, while Holmes Osborne, Mary McDonnell, Jena Malone, and Beth Grant all contribute quality performances. Additional smaller roles by Patrick Swayze, Drew Barrymore, James Duval, and Maggie Gyllenhaal are also noteworthy. Despite a few odd lines, the writing is really good. This production makes the best use of its limited sets, props, and costumes. Special effects aren’t terribly great, but they definitely accentuate the film’s unique style. Music is really slick.
This is not a film that offers a straightforward storyline or answers; it is fundamentally sublime, offering an experience that is mesmerizing and surreal. It is certainly recommended to those open-minded viewers who have the patience and tenacity to view and interpret this mysterious storyline.
Two cuts exist for this film. I've seen people favor the theatrical cut, because it explains less and therefore stimulates the brain more. I personally prefer the director's cut, because it does explain things some more. I'm also more fond of its added special effects. Music is different between the two versions; it may irk some viewers, but not me personally.
4.5/5 (Entertainment: Good | Story: Perfect | Film: Very Good)
This film is on my Top 100 Favorite Films list at #61.
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