Great Film, I just wish I understood it.

Rating: 10/10 (30 March 2002)

There are some films like "Mulholland Drive," that confuse you, and irritate you. In the end, you sense that they are just incoherent and stupid, thus you dislike them. Donnie Darko confused the hell out of me and I loved it! I like the music, the cinematography, the performances, the direction, everything. The movie challenges you and you don't mind, because you know that there is a greater meaning there. Unlike the typical David Lynch garbage.
I understand that this was the first film made by this director and I believe that. I have always felt that Directors tend to have all of their heart and soul into that first film, usually because they have been writing and modifying it their whole lives. They hold on to it and refuse to let anybody else have it, like a first child. I know that was true with Singleton's "Boyz n the Hood" and Anderson's "Boogie Nights."
Be advised that this film is confusing and you might have to watch it a few times, ala "Memento." Moreover, don't be shocked when you find yourself picking up new things each time and enjoying it even more. However, don't think that this will help clarify matters, it hasn't helped me much. But I still love it! Don't get me wrong, I understood about 95% of the film, however the very last 5% just put me in a tailspin.
The story deals with every aspect of genre. There is romance, horror, drama, comedy, mystery and science fiction. I guess what I respect so much about the film is just how much thought and effort went in to it. It is a very ambitious movie. Which begs the question, why was it not a bigger hit?
I will watch it again and someday, possibly understand it fully. Well, I did understand most of it and then the ending just threw me. Oh well, the answers are out there and I will keep looking for them, and enjoy doing so. **** out of ****.