Donnie Darko
Donnie Darko

Donnie Darko

2001Movie114 minEnglish

After narrowly escaping a bizarre accident, a troubled teenager is plagued by visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of crimes.

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IMDb8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes86%
Metacritic69/100
Google Users86%
Director: Richard KellyGenres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller

Plot Summary

In October 1988, a troubled teenager named Donnie Darko is plagued by disturbing visions of a man in a monstrous rabbit suit who tells him the world will end in 28 days, 6 hours, 42 minutes, and 12 seconds. Donnie narrowly escapes death when a jet engine falls on his bedroom. He then finds himself manipulated by the mysterious figure, Frank, into committing a series of mischievous acts that escalate in intensity, forcing him and his family to confront existential questions and the nature of time itself.

Critical Reception

Donnie Darko initially received a mixed reception and struggled at the box office, but it gained a significant cult following on home video and DVD. Over time, it has been re-evaluated by critics and audiences alike, becoming a celebrated cult classic for its unique blend of science fiction, psychological drama, and dark humor. Its complex narrative and thematic depth continue to be debated and analyzed.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative.
  • Often cited as a unique and ambitious independent film.
  • Jake Gyllenhaal's performance as Donnie is widely commended.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's intelligent and mind-bending plot, praising its originality and thematic exploration of destiny and free will. Many appreciate its dark yet compelling tone and the memorable characters, though some find its complex narrative challenging to fully grasp.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 2001. Received critical acclaim over time, solidifying its status as a cult classic.

Fun Fact

The filmmakers were not allowed to use the actual song "The Killing Moon" by Echo & the Bunnymen in the film's trailer, so they used a soundalike track. However, the original song is prominently featured in the film itself.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

5 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Jake Gyllenhaal is the eponymous teenager who just doesn't really fit in. Ever since he was a young child, he has struggled and it's only "Gretchen" (Jena Malone) who has anything to do with him. It's maybe on the psychiatrists couch that h...
Filipe Manuel Neto

Filipe Manuel Ne...

**A strange film, with a strong visual impact and a script with wild theories, but which fulfills its objective very well and is enjoyable to watch.** I saw this film very recently, and I have to agree with all those who label it “strang...
Repo Jack

Repo Jack

A complete mind-bender of a movie that put Jake Gyllenhall on the map, introduced the creepiest rabbit costume of all time, and may make you surprisingly tear up to a remake of Tears for Fears "Mad World."
Wuchak

Wuchak

***Cult flick with sophisticated themes, great cast, but meh story*** Released in 2001 and written/directed by Richard Kelly, "Donnie Darko" is a drama/fantasy starring Jake Gyllenhaal as a troubled California teen dogged by apparitions ...
Andres Gomez

Andres Gomez

Interesting movie with several readings. As with 2001: A Space Odissey, it is needed a reading of the actual explanation for the events to fully understand the original idea ... if you are interested in such explanation ...