Why are you wearing that stupid man suit?
- Released on January 19, 2001
Donnie Darko is a mind-bending science fiction film that follows the life of a troubled teenager named Donnie, played by Jake Gyllenhaal. The movie begins with Donnie narrowly escaping a strange accident, where a jet engine mysteriously falls from the sky and lands in his bedroom, missing him by inches. This event sets the stage for a series of surreal and unsettling experiences that Donnie must navigate.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Donnie Darko is its cast of characters, which includes Dr. Lilian Thurman, played by Katharine Ross. Dr. Thurman is a psychiatrist who tries to help Donnie make sense of his increasingly bizarre behavior and hallucinations. Another notable character is a large bunny rabbit named Frank, who appears to Donnie in his visions and manipulates him into committing a series of crimes. The relationship between Donnie and Frank is one of the central mysteries of the film, and it adds to the overall sense of unease and intrigue.
In addition to its memorable characters, Donnie Darko is also known for its complex and thought-provoking plot. The film explores themes of time travel, fate, and mental illness, and it challenges viewers to think critically about the nature of reality. While some may find the movie's twists and turns confusing or overwhelming, others appreciate its bold and ambitious storytelling. Ultimately, Donnie Darko is a unique and unforgettable film that will leave viewers questioning the nature of their own reality long after the credits roll.
Donnie Darko is part of the Darko Collection.
Full Cast of Donnie Darko
Jake Gyllenhaal
as Donnie Darko
Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a mesmerizing performance as the titular character in 'Donnie Darko'. His portrayal of the troubled teenager grappling with mental illness and existential dread is both haunting and heartfelt. Gyllenhaal's ability to convey Donnie's complex emotions, from his moments of rage and despair to his brief flashes of hope and humor, is truly commendable. His performance is a testament to his range and depth as an actor, making Donnie Darko a character that lingers long in the memory.
Drew Barrymore
as Karen Pomeroy
Drew Barrymore delivers a memorable performance as Karen Pomeroy, the English teacher in the cult classic 'Donnie Darko'. Her character, while secondary, plays a pivotal role in the film's narrative. Barrymore brings a sense of warmth and empathy to the screen, making Karen a relatable and endearing character. Her performance is subtle yet impactful, as she guides Donnie through his existential crisis with patience and understanding. Barrymore's portrayal of Karen Pomeroy is a testament to her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth to even the most understated roles.
Beth Grant
as Kitty Farmer
Beth Grant's performance as Kitty Farmer in 'Donnie Darko' is a standout, as she brings to life a character that is both comically absurd and deeply unsettling. Her portrayal of the overbearing and manipulative motivational speaker is a perfect blend of humor and menace, making Kitty Farmer one of the most memorable characters in the film. Grant's ability to switch between the character's seemingly harmless demeanor and her more sinister intentions is a testament to her acting skills, and her performance is a highlight of the film.
Maggie Gyllenhaal
as Elizabeth Darko
Margalit "Maggie" Ruth Gyllenhaal (born November 16, 1977) is an American actress and filmmaker. Part of the Gyllenha...
Mary McDonnell
as Rose Darko
Mary McDonnell delivers a compelling performance as Mrs. Rose Darko in the movie 'Donnie Darko'. Her portrayal of a concerned mother, struggling to understand her troubled son, is both heartfelt and authentic. McDonnell's ability to convey a range of emotions, from worry and confusion to love and support, adds depth to her character and makes her a standout in the film. Her performance is a testament to her talent as an actress and adds a layer of complexity to the movie's narrative.
Holmes Osborne
as Eddie Darko
Holmes Osborne delivers a compelling performance as Eddie Darko in 'Donnie Darko'. As the father of the troubled protagonist, Osborne expertly balances the character's stern demeanor with moments of genuine warmth and concern for his son. His interactions with Jake Gyllenhaal's Donnie are particularly noteworthy, as the two share a complex and evolving relationship that adds depth to the film's narrative. Overall, Osborne's performance is a standout in the movie, showcasing his ability to portray a multifaceted character with authenticity and nuance.
Noah Wyle
as Prof. Kenneth Monnitoff
In the movie 'Donnie Darko', Noah Wyle delivers a memorable performance as Professor Kenneth Monnitoff. His portrayal of the high school science teacher is both nuanced and compelling, providing a grounding presence in the midst of the film's surreal and complex narrative. Wyle's performance is characterized by a subtle blend of empathy and detachment, which allows him to effectively convey the character's internal conflict and intellectual curiosity. His interactions with the titular character, Donnie Darko, are particularly noteworthy, as they highlight the professor's struggle to balance his role as a mentor and his own personal beliefs. Overall, Wyle's performance adds depth and authenticity to the movie, making it a standout in his career.
Katharine Ross
as Dr. Lilian Thurman
Katharine Ross delivers a captivating performance as Dr. Lilian Thurman in the movie 'Donnie Darko'. Her portrayal of the empathetic and insightful psychiatrist provides a grounding force amidst the film's surreal and often disorienting narrative. Ross's nuanced acting allows her character to genuinely connect with Donnie, offering a compassionate ear and guidance without overstepping her boundaries. Her performance adds depth to the story, as she subtly hints at the complexities of mental health and the human condition, ultimately leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Patrick Swayze
as Jim Cunningham
Patrick Wayne Swayze (August 18, 1952 – September 14, 2009) was an American actor, dancer and singer-songwriter. He ...
David St. James
as Bob Garland
David St. James delivers a memorable performance as Bob Garland in the cult classic film 'Donnie Darko'. His portrayal of the eccentric motivational speaker is both humorous and unsettling, as he expertly captures the character's mix of charisma and underlying menace. St. James's performance is a standout in the film, providing a memorable contrast to the darker themes and events that unfold throughout the story.
Jazzie Mahannah
as Joanie James
Jolene Purdy
as Cherita Chen
Jolene Purdy delivers a memorable performance as Cherita Chen in the movie 'Donnie Darko'. As a high school student who is often the target of bullying, Purdy brings a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to the role. Despite the character's tough exterior, Purdy's nuanced portrayal reveals Cherita's underlying insecurities and longing for acceptance. Her scenes with Jake Gyllenhaal's Donnie are particularly poignant, as the two outsiders find solace in each other's company. Overall, Purdy's performance adds depth and heart to the film's ensemble cast.
David Moreland
as Principal Cole
In the enigmatic film 'Donnie Darko', David Moreland delivers a noteworthy performance as Principal Cole. Moreland's portrayal of the stern and seemingly unapproachable school principal is both authentic and intriguing. His character's interactions with the protagonist, Donnie, are filled with tension and a subtle undercurrent of empathy, adding depth to the overall narrative. Moreland's performance is a testament to his ability to bring complex characters to life, making Principal Cole a memorable figure in the film.
Marina Malota
as Emily Bates
Gary Lundy
as Sean Smith
Stuart Stone
as Ronald Fisher
Stuart Stone's portrayal of Ronald Fisher in 'Donnie Darko' is a standout performance, showcasing his ability to bring depth and authenticity to the character. As the bullied and misunderstood Ronald, Stone expertly captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of a young teenager struggling to find his place in the world. His interactions with the main character, Donnie, are both heartwarming and heartbreaking, as he conveys a sense of longing for friendship and acceptance. Stone's performance is a testament to his talent as an actor, making Ronald a character that audiences can't help but root for and empathize with.
Seth Rogen
as Ricky Danforth
In the enigmatic film 'Donnie Darko', Seth Rogen delivers a memorable performance as Ricky Danforth, a high school student known for his sarcastic wit and distinctive laugh. Rogen's character, while not central to the plot, adds a layer of comedic relief to the otherwise dark and complex narrative. His portrayal of Ricky is not only entertaining but also effectively captures the essence of a typical high school student, making the character relatable and endearing to the audience.
Mark Hoffman
as Police Officer
Jerry Trainor
as Lanky Kid
Jerry Trainor's performance as Lanky Kid in 'Donnie Darko' is a brief but memorable one. Despite his limited screen time, Trainor's character is instantly recognizable due to his lanky physique and awkward demeanor. He portrays the character with a perfect balance of humor and vulnerability, making him both amusing and endearing. Trainor's performance adds a touch of lightheartedness to the film's otherwise dark and complex narrative, making it a standout moment in the movie.
Tom Tangen
as Man in Red Jogging Suit
Tom Tangen was born on September 8, 1961 and is currently 63 years old.
Carly Naples
as Suzy Bailey
Lisa K. Wyatt
as Linda Connie
Lisa K. Wyatt delivers a memorable performance as Linda Connie in 'Donnie Darko'. Her portrayal of the eccentric and somewhat unhinged English teacher is both captivating and unsettling. Wyatt's ability to switch between a stern, authoritative figure and a vulnerable, emotionally unstable individual adds depth to her character, making her a standout in the film. Her performance is a testament to her talent and versatility as an actress.
Rachel Winfree
as Shanda Riesman
Rachel Winfree delivers a captivating performance as Shanda Riesman in the cult classic film 'Donnie Darko'. As the kind-hearted and compassionate English teacher, Winfree brings a sense of warmth and understanding to her character, making her an unforgettable presence in the movie. Her nuanced portrayal of a teacher who genuinely cares for her students adds depth to the film, creating a stark contrast to the darker themes and characters that surround Donnie Darko's world. Winfree's performance is a standout, and her scenes with the protagonist provide some of the most touching and memorable moments in the film.
Ashley Tisdale
as Kim
Ashley Tisdale's performance as Kim in 'Donnie Darko' is a notable departure from her previous roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. As the cheerleader who becomes romantically involved with the troubled protagonist, Tisdale brings a sense of warmth and vulnerability to the character, making Kim more than just a stereotypical high school sweetheart. Her portrayal adds depth to the film's exploration of teenage angst and the complexities of adolescent relationships.
Tiler Peck
as Beth Farmer
Tiler Peck's performance as Beth Farmer in 'Donnie Darko' is a standout, despite her character's limited screen time. Peck brings a sense of innocence and vulnerability to the role, making Beth a sympathetic and relatable character. Her dance scene with Donnie is a highlight of the film, showcasing Peck's impressive ballet skills and adding an ethereal quality to the movie's surreal atmosphere. Overall, Peck's performance is a memorable one, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Fran Kranz
as Passanger
Fran Kranz delivers a standout performance as Passenger in the cult classic film 'Donnie Darko'. His portrayal of the awkward and anxious teenager is both endearing and authentic, adding a layer of depth to the film's ensemble cast. Kranz's ability to convey a range of emotions, from fear to excitement, makes his character a memorable addition to the film's already compelling narrative. His performance is a testament to his talent as an actor and serves as a highlight of the film.
Sarah Hudson
as Friend
In the cult classic film 'Donnie Darko', Sarah Hudson delivers a noteworthy performance as Friend, one of the enigmatic characters that shape the film's mystical atmosphere. Although her role is relatively small, Hudson's portrayal of the masked figure is both haunting and intriguing, adding an extra layer of mystery to the film's already complex narrative. Her ability to convey emotion and intent through a mask is a testament to her acting skills, making Friend a memorable and impactful character in the Donnie Darko universe.
Alison Jones
as Dorky Half-Sister
Lee Weaver
as Leroy
Lee Weaver's performance as Leroy in 'Donnie Darko' is a memorable one, despite his limited screen time. His portrayal of the elderly man who has visions of the future, particularly of the film's protagonist, Donnie, is both haunting and poignant. Weaver brings a sense of gravitas and wisdom to the role, making Leroy a compelling character who adds to the overall mystery and intrigue of the film. His scenes with Jake Gyllenhaal's Donnie are some of the most powerful in the movie, and Weaver's performance is a standout in an already impressive cast.
