“Requiem for a Dream” is a film made from the mind of Darren Arofnosky, the creator of another indie success “Pi”.   He pretty much goes out on the limb of the tree as far he can go without breaking the damn thing.  “Requiem” is a tale of four very individuals that each indulge themselves in their addictions, but each  is different.  

The movie opens with a scene where Harry Goldfarb (Jared Leto) is trying to take his mothers television to sell to the local pawn shop so he and his friend Tyrone C. Love (Marlon Ways) can score.  They are carefree kids just living day by day, all worries are lost when they inject happy medicine into their veins.   Marion Silver plays Harry’s girlfriend and tags along for the ride, but quickly gets engulfed in the lifestyle. Harry’s mother is a elderly lonely widowed woman who’s addiction is not of the substance abuse kind, but television and food.  

To give away any more of the movie would do an injustice to the experience it gives you. I was scarred for life after seeing this movie. I am happy to say all four leading roles were played may I say…perfectly.  Marlon Wayans performance is extraordinary and should have been noted at 2000 Oscars , but of course was not.  Jennifer Connely should be given a bravery award for her willingness to go to the edge with this moving, baring all, literally.  I unfortunately viewed the edited version so I did not get to witness the movie as  it was supposed to be, but sometimes I am grateful I did not have to witness the true pain that some go thru to get their fix. 

The musical score is also something to be noted.  It comes in at all the right times, and knows when to stay out.  I recommend the soundtrack to anyone with any appreciation for music.

This movie is not for everyone.  It is hardcore. Some scenes may be to graphic for some. For those who want to witness a truly great original innovation in moviemaking, see “Requiem for a Dream”