Outstanding

Rating: 9/10 (13 January 2002)

As a movie aficionado I naturally watch loads of movies. But I hardly witnessed anything as thrilling and shocking as this milestone of modern cinema for years. It even surpasses the brilliant "Festen" by Thomas Vinterberg in terms of authenticity and slapping in the audiences face. I can't recall a flick that brought together brilliant acting, intense narration, a spine-chilling score and not least superb photography alike.
The movie deals with the well known subject of (drug) addiction and the possible, almost certain results. Nothing special so far. But there are so many sub-plots that make the difference. And foremost the acting is simply breathtaking. Ellen Burstyn - well in mind for her role as a desperate mother in "The Exorcist" - gives one of the best performances I've ever seen, with the other actors just close behind. And as if that wouldn't be more one can expect these days, the visual translation of the subject is excellent - never before special effects seemed to make so much sense. Darren Aronofsky has created a shockingly real view on contemporary society. And it hurts.
Be prepared for one of the most intense films ever made. Not for the faint hearted.
Rating: 9/10