SummaryA genre-busting fable that blasts the American suburban drama into a wildly imaginative realm of time travel, alternative universes and the manipulation of one's fate. (IFC Films)
Directed By:Richard Kelly
Written By:Richard Kelly
Donnie Darko
Metascore
Generally Favorable
71
User score
Universal Acclaim
8.4
My Score
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Metascore
Generally Favorable
71
76% Positive
16 Reviews
16 Reviews
19% Mixed
4 Reviews
4 Reviews
5% Negative
1 Review
1 Review
100
Like gathering storm clouds, Donnie Darko creates an atmosphere of eerie calm and mounting menace -- stands as one of the most exceptional movies of 2001.
88
David Lynch lite.
User score
Universal Acclaim
8.4
88% Positive
473 Ratings
473 Ratings
8% Mixed
43 Ratings
43 Ratings
4% Negative
22 Ratings
22 Ratings
May 3, 2026
10
This movie gets better every time I watch it.
It works well comedically in the same way that an 80s Ferris Bueller-style film does, with horror and sci-fi elements through a hyper-stylized lens. The gnostic themes of forbidden knowledge in a corrupt world is haunting, and the vibes of the scenes with Frank are insanely unique and freaky.
Nov 4, 2025
10
Such a unique tone despite being (mostly) such familiar content and social commentary. I love the ambiguity of this original theatrical cut too, more mystery in the supernatural elements, more to think about. So damn memorable and relatable as an adolescent. Forever original.
80
If you let it be what it is, Donnie Darko will knock you flat.
75
Its only constant is that it's strangely eloquent and quite original.
70
Has plenty of problems. But most stem from a young filmmaker overswinging on his first time up to the plate and hitting a deep fly out rather than a home run.
50
If this movie ever figured out what it wanted to be when it grows up, it would be a terrific one.
38
Just another self-absorbed teen chronicle, with the added twist of a little time travel and a surprise ending.
Feb 26, 2025
10
I had goosebumps from the suspense and the rabbit, the plot is interesting and not expected until the end, the ending is sad and not clear at first, I recommend it to everyone
Jun 27, 2023
6
There are some legitimately interesting scenes that could’ve been explored more (like the science fiction-heavy elements), but there are some tiresome periods of awkward high school scenarios.
Feb 18, 2018
6
This movie certainly is.... different. It has a very strange premise but ultimately is mostly entertaining with a freakishly scary protagonist/antagonist but Donnie Darko ends on an emotional note. There are some confusing and brain-breaking concepts that I couldn't quite get my head around, so my recommendation for this movie only goes as far as for philosophical people.
Oct 31, 2015
3
I think it's a movie very overrated. I didn't like it at all and i don't understand why it's considered a cult film...................................................
Production Company:
- Pandora Cinema
- Flower Films (II)
- Adam Fields Productions
- Gaylord Films
Release Date:Oct 26, 2001
Duration:1 h 53 m
Rating:R
Tagline:Life is one long insane trip. Some people just have better directions.
Website:
Awards
Chlotrudis Awards
• 2 Wins & 4 Nominations
Film Independent Spirit Awards
• 3 Nominations
Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA
• 1 Win & 2 Nominations




























