A great movie made greater by Maggie Gyllenhaal

Rating: 9/10 (20 March 2005)

Regarding Maggie . . .she really has a special presence on the screen that goes beyond beauty. The first time that I became aware of her was in Mona Lisa Smile. I could not take my eyes off her no matter who else was on the screen with her. The same thing with Donnie Darko. She only had a small role and yet, for me, she jumped off the screen. The over-used word 'authentic'comes to mind. In any case, I expect her to become more than a star. She is so talented and takes risks. Her movies differ so much. They don't fall into any category except that they are all different. And from such a great family. Oh, I also forgot to mention her unique beauty. Maggie, take care of yourself! The world needs more actresses like you. Best wishes to you and all the Gyllenhaals! The movie really shook me up. The ending, combined with that haunting song, reduced me to tears. Maggie, as the bereaved younger sister, finished me off. I did not discover this magnificent movie until my students warned me about it. I am a movie buff yet I do not remember it when it was first released. A wonderful cast, great script, mind-bending plot, and wonderful sound track. What else can I say? 9 out of 10!