Donnie Darko - John Lesko

I really enjoyed this film. I think the real power in this film is that it keeps elements of comedy, horror and suspense while still being highly symbolic and holding a deep meaning. Donnie experiences many typical things that actual high schoolers do, but he handles them in a very mature and unique way. He has a girl that he is interested in, but their relationship seems very awkward at points. He has parents that have high expectations of him but also understand and support him. His friends are supportive but also negatively influence some of his decisions. One of the themes of this film is the ripple effect that every decision we make has on people around us. At the beginning of the film, Donnie leaves his room in the middle of the night, which saves his life but leads to the death of his girlfriend, sister and mother. He sees all of these things happen and decides not to leave in order to save them when he travels back in time. Another theme is the thought that "every living thing dies alone." Donnie ponders this and admits that he really does feel alone. After seeing the effects that Donnie had on others and that his decision to die would save loved ones, gave him the feeling that he wasn't dying alone. Being alone doesn't mean you are physically isolate, but feeling emotional distance from others is the real cause of loneliness. Once Donnie made these connections, he felt more surrounded during his death.