The most poignant part of Donnie Darko comes when Donnie lies down in his bed at the end of the movie, laughs, and breathes a sigh of relief. In his talks with his psychologist throughout the movie, he talks of his own lack of faith, the idea that everyone dies alone, and other pessimistic outlooks on life. As he laughs and sighs, knowing what is about to happen, it shows that he has accepted his death. Donnie’s “time traveling” experience has helped him to find some sort of faith. The first time the engine crashes he is not ready to die, whereas the second time he is prepared and willing. The journey he has taken, the experiences he has had with Frank, and the talks with his psychologist have changed him enough that he is able to breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to what is to come.

--Andy Carlson