Good, But Not A Masterpiece

Rating: 8/10 (7 June 2003)

Darren Aronofsky's movie is considered by many as a masterpiece, equal or even better to 'Clockwork Orange'. I am cautious to join this chorus.
This is a good film indeed. Four characters in the American suburb that became the background of some of the best movies in the last few years start spiraling down in an accelerated manner due to drug problems. Mother and son, different generations, are both victims of drug addiction, each in the specific manner belonging to their age. Their dream are artificial ones, Sparking American dreams from outside, rotten inside. One of the many good scenes brings them into what may look like their happier moment, but you soon realize that they already have started the free fall. More social comments are being made, including a tough view of the American TV sub-culture.
Acting is remarkable. Best are the two lead feminine roles - Jenmifer Connelly and especially Ellen Burstyn, with an Oscar-level performance. This director knows to get the best from his actors.
So, what's wrong? In my view the film is too obvious, too didactic. Drugs are a problem, and this film makes a strong case against drugs. As tough and hard to watch as it is, seeing this film should be mandatory in schools in US and other parts of the Western world touched by the drugs plague. But the didactic tone lowers the artistic quality. All what happens with the characters, as shocking and disturbing as it might be, is predictable after the first ten minutes of the film. Some ambiguity would have helped, and I hope that the director will avoid the manifesto style in his coming movies. He is really one big talent to watch. The film gets 8/10 on my personal scale.