Leaves you thinking days after

Rating: 10/10 (10 March 2003)

I would not have even known about this film but for a small plug from Megan on Tech Tv's Screen Savers. My only regret is that I didn't rent it sooner.

Donnie Darko is truly a remarkable film - one of the best I have seen in a very long time. That being said, it is not for everyone. It is very complex, and requires some effort to understand it.
For those of you who need to have all the questions answered by the end of the movie, Donnie Darko is not for you. Viewing the movie leaves a myriad of questions - the movie does not end with one big happy ending where all the issues are resolved.
However, research (director's commentary, "The Philosophy of Time Travel", etc.) reveals so much more, and helps to answer some of those questions. At times, it is difficult to wrap your mind around what exactly happens - but its worth it. One of the qualities that makes science fiction/fantasy good (or at least believable) is the adherence to the rules of that world. Darko's rules are not readily apparent, but once discovered, they invoke a clearer understanding and greater appreciation for the film.
There are very few films that stay with a person; this is one of those films.