Camille Gross: Donnie Darko 22 April


I didn’t understand our discussion about Donnie Darko when Dr. Redick talked about connections and being separated from someone. I always felt that being separated from someone you have a deep connection with is horrible, especially if they are deceased. You have all of these wonderful moments and you know for a fact that you will never be able to create a new memory with that person.
I understand now. It’s not just thinking about those moments that give you comfort. It’s looking at practical objects you see everyday and seeing the personality within that object that reminds you of the one who is not physically with you anymore. The tree they always climbed, the road you two walked on and had heart-to-heart conversations, or the restaurant you saw them at once and they took the time out of their day to talk to you. I can’t explain it in words, I don’t think anyone can. You feel it when you recognize something practical as something to preserve the connection you have with someone special. The memories are so powerful, the presence of that person can be felt and their voice can be heard.
The one thing I wondered while watching Donnie Darko: Was it really better for Donnie to sacrifice himself? For example, Jim Cunningham would still be a pervert but no one would know and people would continue to worship what he preached.

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