Profoundly disturbing, utterly brilliant

Rating: Null/10 (22 October 2001)

Darren Aronofsky proves he is no one-hit-wonder in this profoundly disturbing, utterly brilliant film about drugs, sex and the value of human life. Based on the Hubert Selby Jr novel of the same name, Requiem for a Dream explores the hopes and aspirations of the downtrodden of New York's Coney Island, their downward spiral to oblivion and ultimate penance for the sin of addiction. Whilst at points uncomfortable, in others dull, Requiem succeeds in intimating us with its central characters, allowing us to empathise with their every disappointment, to weep for their irreversible mistakes. A simply unforgettable experience that is seared in to the audiences' collective consciousness, Requiem for a Dream is a potent weapon in the fight against drugs.
(A note: There is an R rated version that was released on VHS and in many cinemas that butchers this movie (in particular the closing scenes). The US unrated, uncut version of this movie is the only one suitable for viewing)