33/50: Requiem for a Dream

I have never really had the urge to try hardcore drugs, nor do I see the reason why anyone would ever want to. Besides the initial feeling you get from it, everything else about it just seems horrific. So what is it that makes people want to go down that path?

Anyway, if anyone is even considering taking hardcore drugs of any sort Requiem for a Dream should be appointment viewing. If they aren't scared off from doing drugs by watching this film then there was no real hope for them anyway.

The film follows four individuals, all linked in some way, that begin to go down that dark path of drug use. Harry Goldfarb (Jared Leto) and Tyrone Love (Marlon Wayans) have decided that in order to always have their next fix they will begin to sell drugs. Also along for the ride is Harry's girlfriend Marion Silver (Jennifer Connelly), who dreams of owning a clothing store - which Harry has agreed to fund with his drug money.

The weirdest story truly belongs to Harry's mother, Sara (Ellen Burstyn). She is a bit of a television addict and loves this infomercial guy, Tappy Tibbons (Christopher McDonald). One day she receives a letter informing her that she will be on television soon. So, she begins to try losing weight - when it becomes difficult she tries diet pills and becomes addicted.

The interesting stories belong to the younger three as we see just what they will do and how far they will go to make sure they have their drugs. All three take different paths, but the results basically end up the same.

I have to say, a very well done and disturbing film. Like I said, anyone who even has a thought about taking drugs should absolutely check this film out. Even though I had no plans to partake in any of these substances - I am definitely staying away forever now.

I haven't seen too many films with Leto, but I thought he did a great job in the role. Connelly continues to amaze me - she hasn't appeared to age in 20 years. And Wayans was great in a non-comedic performance.

Grade: