Charred Heart

Rating: Null/10 (6 February 2001)

Fantasy-drama takes a long strange trip to the end of the story. Audience is left wondering what the hell is going on  how do the surreal moments relate to the rest of the story. It all ties up and makes sense, but many people won't have the patience. They also won't like the dark tone of the lead character.
The performances by lead teen actor Jake Gyllenhaal and Mary McDonnell are outstanding. They drew me in and I cared about them. The film wouldn't hold up as well as it does without them. Drew Barrymore's performance, on the other hand, is laughable and took me out of the story. There are many literary references and a cool 80s soundtrack.
I heard that it may be edited from the two hour version I saw. It could use some tightening up, though the mood will definitely be altered -- and it needs its mood. In spite of its flaws, this film has a heart at its core that stayed with me long after I left the theater.