Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Written by Hubert Selby Jr. and Darren Aronofsky
Cinematography by Matthew Libatique

Ellen Burstyn as Sara Goldfarb Jared Leto as Harry Goldfarb Jennifer Connelly as Marion Silver Marlon Wayans as Tyrone C. Love Christopher McDonald as Tappy Tibbons Louise Lasser as Ada Keith David as Big Tim Sean Gullette as Arnold the Shrink Dylan Baker as Southern Doctor Bill Buell as Court Doctor Brian Costello as 1st AD Mark Margolis as Mr. Rabinowitz

Running Time: 100 min.
Release Date: Oct. '00

Overall Call:
The decent into addiction has been dealt with frequently in film. When it's done right though I'm always engaged. Darren Aronofsky second film, based off the novel by Hubert Selby Jr., picks up where he left off with his debut Pi. His use of rapid editing and a well integrated soundtrack continued here in his second effort. This isn't your typical brainless use of editing to make up for a weak story or acting. The way Aronofsky cuts his movies together complements the story adding a depth that almost makes it a separate character in the film. The actors were all very strong. Ellen Burstyn was very deserving of her Oscar nomination. To my surprise (due to never seeing him do anything with serious weight) Marlon Wayans turned in a very honest performance too. The movie is certainly not for those with a weak stomach. All the characters go through rather intense, unappealing and demoralizing circumstances as they become increasingly shackled to their addiction. The decent is told in an unflinching manner that some have unfortunately confused for a week attempt at over the top shock value. If you are not put off by the subject matter or looking for a Cinderellaesque story, watch this and be amazed. If Aronofsky hooks you with his style go rent Pi.

Reasons For Recommendation:
+ Ellen Burstyn's brilliant performance
+ Aronofsky's well executed unique directorial stamp
+ The story pulls you right in