Impressive Treatment, Much Less Impressive Subject Matter

Rating: 5/10 (14 May 2002)

I found the artistic elements of this film impressive. The acting was terrific--two elements that are often underdeveloped. My complaint is simple, and I expect I am in the minority: I want art to inspire; in the classical sense, I want art to put a spirit into me. I want to experience a Muse whom I do not know. Inspiration can, and often does, deal with horrific and troubling subject matter. Having seen the The Basketball Diaries; Train Spotting; Traffic, etc. Requiem for a Dream offers me very little beyond the appreciated art direction and acting already mentioned. 5 being a film that pleases, I give RFAD a 6/10.