Darren Aronofsky's Requiem For A Dream very well could be the most unsettling film about drugs ever made. Whether or not that's a good thing, well that's up to the viewer.
This film is most definitely not for everyone. While I sat in the theater, I would say about six people walked out. They just couldn't take it. I don't blame them. While this is easily one of the best films of the year, it is also tough as hell to watch. It makes Trainspotting look like pre-school.
It's the tale of what drugs can do to people. The film revolves around a drug addict and his gorgeous girlfriend, the drug addict's mother, and his best friend. These are really the main characters of the film, and they each go through their own personal hell.
The film works for a number a reasons. The first and foremost is the visual style. Aronofsky's techniques are nothing short of amazing. He uses astonishing cuts which are about the coolest thing I have ever seen in a film. The visual style is not just there to be cool either, it's there for emotional impact. It's hard to explain, but I can't imagine this film being nearly as powerful without the rapid cutting.
The film contains some of the most tragic scenes I have ever seen. One of the main scenes that comes to mind is a heartbreaking conversation between the Ellen Burstyn character and the Jared Leto character.
All the players are phenomenal. Burstyn is perhaps the most poignant of all the actors in the film. If she doesn't win Best Actress at the Academy Awards, I'm going to be angry.
Jared Leto who has never really had a substantial role in anything, gives a breakout performance. Many critics may dislike his thick accent, but it worked for me. The beautiful, and I mean beautiful Jennifer Connelly gives a knockout performance. She's bound to be a major star after this. Even funny man Marlon Wayans, who plays it straight here, gives a worthy performance.
With its marvelous soundtrack by Clint Mansell, the ravishing direction by Aronofsky, the heartbreaking performances, and awesome editing by Jay Rabinowitz, Requiem For A Dream is not to be missed.
Note: To any abusers of illegal substances or those thinking about it, seeing this film would serve you greatly.
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