Donnie Darko (2001)
2001
R
114 Minutes
After narrowly escaping a bizarre accident, a troubled teenager is plagued by visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of crimes.
User Review
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Donnie Darko, despite its turbulent tonal shifts and awkward moments, stands as a brilliant horror, thriller, satire, comedy fusion. It is similar in tone to Sam Mendes' American Beauty while the suburban environment screams Burton.
The film is visually striking, especially Frank, Donnie's hellish bunny friend. The gaunt furry figures not only haunts Donnie's dreams but also my own. Among the oddly surreal world of Donnie Darko, Frank is the glue which connects Donnie's world with a grim apocalyptic prophecy.
Yet, the film has wonderful moments of comedy, all of which carried by the stellar supporting cast. A stand out is Patrick Swayze's walking infomercial Jim Cunningham who acts as a devil like figure in Donnie's life.
While Donnie Darko is no masterpiece, it is the perfect cult film. Rough around the edges sure, but fascinatingly experimental and undisputably striking.2 member like this review.
