Donnie Darko

Donnie Darko

Year: 2001

Runtime: 113 min

Language: english

Director: Richard Kelly

Sci-FiDramaMystery

In this surreal sci-fi drama, a troubled teen's narrow escape from disaster sparks a series of unsettling encounters with a mysterious figure in a giant rabbit costume. As the enigmatic visitor orchestrates a chain of events, Donnie's grip on reality begins to slip, plunging him into a world of uncertainty and moral ambiguity.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Donnie Darko (2001)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Donnie Darko (2001). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

October 1988

October 1988 captures a moment in American history marked by social commentary and cultural tensions. The late 80s were a time of significant change, with the rise of alternative subcultures and the questioning of conventional values, which is reflected in Donnie's rebellious spirit and mental struggles.

Location

Suburban Virginia

Suburban Virginia is characterized by its quiet neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Known for its family-oriented environment, this setting serves as a backdrop that contrasts the internal chaos faced by Donnie and his family.

🏡 Suburb 🌳 Nature

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:50

Main Characters – Donnie Darko (2001)
Meet the key characters of Donnie Darko (2001), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Donnie Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal)

Donnie is a troubled teenager grappling with delusions and mental health issues. His character is marked by a blend of intellect and vulnerability, as he navigates the complexities of adolescence and the reality-altering experiences that lead him toward self-discovery.

🧠 Mental Health 🌌 Teenager 💔 Tragic Hero

Gretchen Ross (Jena Malone)

Gretchen is a new girl at school who finds solace in her relationship with Donnie. Her character represents resilience in the face of adversity, as she seeks love and stability despite her troubled past.

💞 Love Interest 🌪️ Troubled Past

Dr. Thurman (Katharine Ross)

Dr. Thurman serves as Donnie’s psychotherapist, offering insight into his troubled mind. Her character embodies the complexities of mental health treatment and the difficulty in interpreting the manifestations of trauma and mental illness.

🩺 Therapist 🧩 Mind Exploration

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:50

Major Themes – Donnie Darko (2001)
Explore the central themes of Donnie Darko (2001), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔮 Fate

Fate plays a crucial role in 'Donnie Darko', as characters grapple with predetermined paths and the impact of choices made. Donnie’s journey embodies the struggle between accepting one's destiny and actively trying to change it, creating a complex interplay of cause and effect.

🌀 Existential Inquiry

The film delves into existential questions surrounding the nature of reality, time travel, and human existence. Donnie's experiences challenge the understanding of life and death, prompting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and the fabric of the universe.

💔 Mental Health

Mental health is a central theme as Donnie wrestles with schizophrenia and the stigma surrounding it. His experiences highlight the struggles faced by those with mental illnesses, emphasizing empathy and understanding in navigating their complex worlds.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:50

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