best film of 2002

Rating: 10/10 (16 May 2003)

by far, the best movie of that year, and possibly one of the least expensive. no point in even attempting to describe the story as any idea could ruin the experience. as a debut film from director richard kelly, he should be very proud of this. this is the movie of which all his future movies will be judged against. the film is so very intimate, and intricate, using small town locations, and complex plotting to bewilder the viewer but to also wrap them up in the atmosphere of the movie. donnie, played by jake gyllenhaal is a mystery, his character is so down to earth, yet so unworldly that he becomes an instant contender for best character in a movie. and the score by michael andrews is hallucinatingly beautiful, touching the right notes on the right scenes. it all adds to an incredibly light, haunting film, with a pitch black heart. and one hell of a head trip afterwards.