Scared straight with Art

Rating: Null/10 (13 November 2007)

Directed by Darren Aronofsky, co-wrote by Aronofsky with the original author Hubert Selby (who also wrote "Last Exit to Brooklyn"), and starring Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Marlan Wayans, Chris McDonald, Louise Lasser, and Sean Gullette. From the very start, Aronofsky forces you to question reality, and only deepens it from there. The characters, seemingly neurotic by not insane, follow paths that could easily take them straight into Hell but you give them the faith  for awhile  that they're not that stupid and they'll find their way through, especially with one another's awkward but well-intentioned help. The camera, sound design, and scoring (Kronos Quartet  excellent) are complex and shattering, eerie, violent, distorted, and completely supportive of the increasing problems. Acting, especially by Burstyn, is fantastic. She has the toughest role, but as the story goes along, you see that more and more is asked of each actor. Connelly, Leto, Wayans... they all begin to fill their destinies, and they bring a lot to the roles. This is a strong, in your face, unique film that IS Art, but will also serve as a major tool in scaring your kid straight  away from drugs. Guaranteed.