Michael Andrews - Donnie Darko OST

If you've never seen Richard Kelly's Donnie Darko then stop reading this review immediately and find the film to rent. Somehow, someway, you must see this film. The best way to summarize it is to say it's an 80's period piece with a sci-fi plot mixed with one scary ass 6 foot tall bunny named Frank, and one teens discoveries within all of that. Think the plot sounds interesting? Imagine the music that accompanies it. Michael Andrews score is the perfect blend of ethereal sounds and menacing rythmns. If you are a fan of the Requiem For A Dream soundtrack, then you'll understand the tone that is set. While not as intensely dark as the Requiem soundtrack, the music here sets the stage for the film's action, but without giving anything away. The entire score blends as one piece, but each individual track can be taken at face value and be thoroughly enjoyed. While the majority of the works are dark, much like Donnie Darko's mindset throughout the film, it does have it's moments of enlightenment. The track entitled "The Philosophy Of Time Travel" embodies the moments of Darko's mind where a bit of clarity comes to him, only to be followed up with the sensation of wonder and complete bewilderment envoked from "Liquid Spear Waltz." The final track "Did You Know Him?" is the perfect backdrop for the finale. Without giving too much away, the slow mournful piano reflects the characters emotions to a T. All and all, the entire soundtrack fits the film perfectly. After watching the film (numerous times) the score will bring back all the sensations of intrigue, confusion, the creeps, and impending doom. And as a bonus, the Gary Jules cover of Tears For Fears "Mad World" is included (AND an alternate version with subtle-drums). Basically, 5 manstyle points were easily earned, maybe even more than that because everything fits the film so perfectly, but the lack of the non-instrumental 80's staples from the movie is quite lacking. The soundtrack cannot be complete without Tears For Fears "Head Over Heels", The Church's "Under The Milky Way", Echo & The Bunnymen's "The Killing Moon" and Joy Divisions "Love Will Tear Us Apart." It's understandable that these tracks were left off (it's an indie film with a limited budget, getting the rights to these songs may not be as cheap as you'd assume) but without them, the film isn't entirely represented. That being said, Michael Andrews and Richard Kelly deserve nothing but respect for this incredible film and accompanying score. [www.donniedarko.com]