Darko is complex and inspiring

Rating: 10/10 (30 September 2002)

This is perhaps the best movie I've ever seen. A story about God, fate, mental illness, and self-sacrifice, Darko is the brilliant first attempt at film-making by Richard Kelly. Jake Gillenhaal is amazing as troubled teen Donnie. He's not sure if he's going crazy, or if all that he sees really happening. He slowly disconnects from the world, even the people he loves the most. And in the end, the film is about Donnie Darko coming to terms with who he is and what he must do.
The film also boasts fantastic performances by all it's players, including a surprising display of talent by Patrick Swayze, who plays a self-help guru who's teachings appear to be taking root in Donnies home town. Swayze's character is a man in a lot of pain on the inside, and his final scene is emotionally touching. I'm amazed that I had never heard of this movie until a few months ago. It is worthy of a national release, but I guess the powers that be felf either people wouldn't get it, or that it wasn't worth their time. Don't let the fact that you've never heard of it fool you. Anyone out there who hasn't seen this film, do so now. You won't regret it.