Powerfully exacting, emotionally wrenching

Rating: 10/10 (16 August 2006)

I first saw this film when I was about 14. It really blew me away. It is superbly edited, with Aranofsky transforming otherwise mundane daily rituals like cleaning or moving into intriguing expositions. Every character is completely, utterly believable and each performance is quite nuanced, to varying degrees. If for nothing else, don't just see this movie to be convinced of what you already - drugs, especially hard drugs like heroin and speed, are terribly dangerous, but for Aranofsky's daring, original, provocative style, the well-paced plot, and the excellent performances by the ensemble (especially Ellen Burstyn in a truly frightening, unique performance).