Donnie Darko: Modern Classic

Great article at A.V. Club on Donnie Darko. Its the first in a projected series entitled The New Cult Canon to be followed with discussions on Morvern Callar, Irma Vep, Miami Blues and Babe 2: A Pig In The City. I have to admit that other than Donnie, the only other one I am familiar with is Miami Blues. And are you like me thinking Babe?

The article is good because it is one of those that, at least for me, pointed out a few things that I hadn’t entirely picked up on, and most of all, because it made me want to see this film again. (And I just happen to have a copy so that will be happening soon).

In the meanwhile here is a great clip, which is, as pointed out in the article, introduces almost every major character in the film in the space of a song. And what great use of Tears for Fears Head Over Heels.

One of the reasons I really liked this film is that it captured that wonderful balance of cynicism and idealism that pervades this time of life. Yet overall it is one of those films where you can point out this and that, the note perfect performance of Mary McDonnell, of everyone really, the convoluted yet purposeful story line, the sheer intelligence of every part of it, but where it ends up really as just a film where it all works, where a true world has been created, and where possibilities remain after the film is done. This is one of those rare movies that leaves you stunned and silent for some time.

And then sometimes you see a movie on a particular day on which your life takes a turn, and this was one of those. It could have been a mediocre movie and perhaps it still would have been a special day but it wasn’t and that made it a hell of a day.

I have a fear that this may be one of those one shot deals where the director, though obviously gifted, was still lucky more than anything. I so hope I am wrong. The Gyllenhaal siblings have gone on to other good films: Jake Gyllenhaal to Zodiac, and Maggie Gyllenhaal just perfect in everything, a wonder in those small engaging parts that enliven and often outshine the rest of the films.