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Donnie Darko

Donnie Darko succeeds as a film because it explores every aspect of time as a theme. Although there are other films that deal with similar issues, such as time travel, most are too campy to be considered on a philosophical level. Through the character of Donnie Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal), this movie shows us the different ways in which to view time.

Time is represented as a point in history, in this case October 1988, the year of the presidential race between George H.W. Bush and Michael Dukakis. This election (eerily similar to the recent presidential race) reflected the country’s cultural divide. The 1980’s were all about living in excess, and by the end of the decade many were longing for traditional values.

The divide between those who wanted to hold onto tradition, and those who wanted change is emphasized through another view of time represented in the film, time as progress. In Donnie Darko, the older, more traditional teachers, clash with the progressive views of Karen Pomeroy (Drew Barrymore) and Prof. Kenneth Monnitoff (Noah Wyle).

Aside from the elements of time dealt within the plot of Donnie Darko, Richard Kelly shows us the fluidity of time through his direction of the film. The pacing of the scenes emphasizes the idea that time is not a set measurement, but rather something that can be changed, if we learn how to control it. Donnie Darko learns how to master time, and his destiny.

DVD features include: commentary from the actors and directors, “Cunning Visions” infomercials, “The Philosophy of Time Travel” book, “Mad World” music video, deleted and extended scenes, and more.

Written by: Gail Hoffer

Reviewers Rating: 9.5
Reader's Rating: 9.50
Reader's Votes: 2

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