Requiem for a Dream Review: A Brutal Study of Addiction
8.5/10 — Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Pros
- Ellen Burstyn's devastating performance
- Distinctive editing and score
- Honest portrayal of addiction
Cons
- Extremely bleak
- Distressing finale
Four Brooklyn characters, a widow hooked on diet pills and her son, his girlfriend and his friend hooked on heroin, spiral from hopeful dreams into desperation. Darren Aronofsky uses fast cuts and distorted sound to put us inside their heads.
What works
Ellen Burstyn’s performance is shattering, and the montage style and Clint Mansell’s string-heavy score are intense and distinctive. The film doesn’t judge its characters, only watches them fall.
Where it falters
It’s relentlessly bleak, and the final sequence is almost unbearable to watch.
Verdict
A powerful, disturbing film that you’ll admire more than enjoy.
