A brilliant and inspiring fresh film

Rating: 10/10 (19 March 2002)

Donnie Darko does what so many films try, but fail in today's cinema. Be fresh and original. From the opening scene when we are first introduced to Donnie waking up on a mountain road, to the ending sequence that doesn't quite answer all your questions, but gives you enough information to come up with your own conclusions the film just takes you in and manages to effectively involve the interest of the viewer.
The is the freshman effort from newcomer writer/director Richard Kelly. One rarely expects such brilliance from a first time director, let alone screenwriter. Instead Kelly uses his lack of experience to produce a film with a completely different feel and sense of story from any other that this humble reviewer has ever seen. I look forward to much more great things from him.
As far as the cast, well Jake Galynhaal as Donnie Darko, well lets just say I couldn't imagine anyone else taking this role. I'm so glad that Jason Shwartzman (originally up for the lead) ended up ditching this film for the lukewarm slackers just so Jake can grab the reins here. Also the part was originally intended for a younger actor around the age of 14 or 15 and although Jake is definitely not that young the film still works, because he manages to convey this form or youth and personality that while coming off quite young, I couldn't imagine a younger actor pulling off.
The rest of the cast is fantastic and perfectly cast. I must say I love the beautiful Jenna Malone in this film. And for some reason Noah Whiley (while having a small role) really stands out in my mind.
The score and soundtrack are perfect. The music used for this movie is all circa late 80's (the film takes place in 1988) and while I was about 8 or 9 when the film happens I found some great songs I remembered from my childhood along with some I've never heard of before but fell in love with instantly. Theres an establishing stylized scene towards the beginning of the film where they first introduce Donnies school all played to the song "Head Over Heals" by Tears for Fears. It is easily my favorite scene in the movie and I now LOVE that song.
To sum things up, you MUST see and own this film (on DVD of course!)