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Donnie Darko Marks 25 Years Since Its 2001 Release

Donnie Darko Marks 25 Years Since Its 2001 Release

Richard Kelly's science-fiction film opened in theaters on October 26, 2001, with Jake Gyllenhaal among its cast.

FlyMarshall Newsroom1 min read

Photo: Newmarket Films

Richard Kelly wrote and directed Donnie Darko, which opened in theaters on October 26, 2001. The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal alongside Drew Barrymore, Mary McDonnell, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Patrick Swayze, Jena Malone and Noah Wyle.

Key details

  • Kelly wrote and directed the film.
  • The cast includes Jake Gyllenhaal, Drew Barrymore, Mary McDonnell, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Patrick Swayze, Jena Malone and Noah Wyle.
  • A director’s cut arrived in 2004 with additional footage and a changed soundtrack.

Donnie Darko opened in theaters on October 26, 2001.

Why it matters

The film’s science-fiction story centers on a jet engine that crashes into the teenage protagonist’s bedroom, setting its alternate-reality plot in motion. Its cast brings together performers from film and television, including Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

What happens next

The 25-year mark gives audiences a chance to revisit Kelly’s film and its alternate-reality story. Which part of Donnie Darko stays with you most?

Discuss in ThreadsSpace

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