It's a sad world

Rating: 8/10 (11 December 2012)

Richard Kelley's artistically cultivates a character study, teen drama, and a sci-fi thriller intertwining these elements with intriguing results. Donnie Darko doesn't get along too well with anyone; but he does manage to find a sympathetic friend in Gretchen, who then agrees to date him. Donnie does have a friend named Frank - a large bunny which only Donnie can see, and it's unclear whether Frank is a friend or foe. He has a compassionate psychiatrist, who practices hypnosis as a means to unlock hidden secrets. An engine falls off a plane landing onto Donnie's room when he is not there. Both the event and his escape may have been caused by supernatural forces, but we are unsure if the accident actually occurred because of Donnie's psychological issues. That the film includes elements of science fiction, horror, and dry, dark comedy makes it not only eminently fun, but also somewhat disturbing to watch. Similar to David Lynch's "Blue Velvet", the film explores the everyday, munde and the unspoken immorality that lurks in the shadows. Impressive directorial debut for Richard Kelley and and a fantastic performance by Jake Gyllenhaal.