Jun 12 2008
The Honorary 80s Film Award Goes To: Donnie Darko

If we’re talking about 80s films, one of the best ever has got to be Donnie Darko.
I know, I know, it came out in 2001, but I dare anyone to refute the fact that the film embodies the 80s. From the clothes, to the dialogue, to the amazing soundtrack, Donnie Darko lives and breathes the 80s like not many other movies I know of.
The film also showcases what a gifted actor Jake Gyllenhaal is (for those of you who had any doubt, which after films like The Good Girl and Brokeback Mountain, you really shouldn’t).
In fact, all the actors in this film bring something extra to their characters that, when added up, makes for a whole, intricate storyline and mosaic that tells a riveting story in a unique way.
The film also stars Jake’s real-life sis Maggie Gyllenhaal, Mary McDonell and Patrick Swayze, as well as many others, each of whom do amazing things with their quirky roles.
Donnie Darko, though not an 80s movie per se, captures the decade and leaves an impression that’s hard to forget–in a good way.