What happened to this film?

Rating: 8/10 (16 January 2006)

I missed a lot of good movies when they came out in 2001 and 2002. But what happened to this film? To me it production values seem first rate, so why so few screens at release? Well, perhaps like a few other great films this one was destined to gain a cult following, and judging by the 68,000+ votes here at IMDb it sure has.
The film opens with Donnie sleeping in the middle of the road up in some hills. He wakes up and rides his bike, apparently a long way home. It's never really clear why, but this film events are supposed to have occurred in October of 1988. Donnie's family is well to do, with a lot of connections and living in a very nice neighborhood.
Next we get to see the Darkos at dinner, where sibling rivalry is exposed. It's also clear that despite any political stance the parents have allowed their children to be open minded. It seems to be this same night that Donnie meets a new imaginary friend, who leads Donnie out his bedroom and house. It becomes apparent that Donnie sleepwalks, and this explains Donnie sleeping in the middle of the road.
This seems to begin the adventure of Donnie Darko, and the most important part of his life. Events occur that will change the course of Donnie's life, family, and friends. I don't want to spoil the movie for you as Donnie explores his changed life, mental illness, struggles with friends and enemies, and ultimately the end of the world.
The story can be confusing at times, so make sure to follow the film as closely as possible. It's a very good movie with some good points and some not of so-much-to-be-concerned-with fun. 8/10