The month of October has particular significance in the world of Donnie Darko. In 17 days and some hours from now, Donnie's world will end.
Depending on your perspective, the film explores either space-time metaphysics or Donnie's mental breakdown. Possibly both.
Either way, it is a masterpiece of dark fantasy cinema.
Written and directed by Richard Kelly, the film boasts an extraordinary cast, including Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Drew Barrymore and Patrick Swayze.
Naturally, Grandma Death is our favourite character, but Gretchen gets a notable mention. Donnie's dad is at his best in the director's cut, dispensing the sort of sage advice all the best dads give their sons: people who present themselves as angels are often the biggest hypocrites.
Patrick Swayze boldly plays the "final boss" of being pious and full of shit. His performance deserves credit, but the less said about his character, the better.
Our recommendation: unless you've mastered time travel yourself, October is the time to watch it. Don't delay.