What is the difference between the original Donnie Darko and the director’s cut?

Many people are unsure of which of the editions they should watch. The original lasts for 113 minutes; while the director’s cut is 20 minutes longer. The original also does have a more mysterious atmosphere.

In the director’s cut

The opening-scene song is changed from The killing moon to Never tear us apart.

Donnie’s therapist tells him his pills are only placebos, and that he can stop taking his medication.

Several class-room scenes are longer.

If you want a challenge, and like to solve riddles, watch the original. It’s more difficult to interpret. If you are interested in realizing what’s going on, try to watch The director’s cut, where Richard Kelly has left more keys to the final answers of Donnie Darko.