Step into the haunting and unforgettable world of Requiem for a Dream (2000), Darren Aronofsky’s powerful psychological drama that explores addiction, obsession, and the devastating cost of chasing dreams. Known for its intense visuals, gripping performances, and iconic soundtrack, the film remains one of the most striking depictions of human despair.
Think you remember every heartbreaking detail and character downfall? Test your knowledge with this 10-question trivia challenge — if you’re brave enough.
Requiem for a Dream (2000) Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers to each question, along with detailed explanations to deepen your understanding of Requiem for a Dream (2000) — one of the most haunting and visually impactful films ever made:
1) Who directed Requiem for a Dream (2000)?
Correct Answer: Darren Aronofsky
Darren Aronofsky directed Requiem for a Dream, adapting Hubert Selby Jr.’s novel of the same name. Known for his intense and often unsettling storytelling style, Aronofsky crafted a visually innovative and emotionally devastating film about addiction, dreams, and human fragility.
2) Which actress plays Sara Goldfarb?
Correct Answer: Ellen Burstyn
Ellen Burstyn delivers a harrowing and unforgettable performance as Sara Goldfarb, an aging widow who spirals into amphetamine addiction in pursuit of her dream to appear on television. Burstyn’s portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and is widely regarded as one of the finest performances of her career.
3) What is the main addiction of Sara Goldfarb in the film?
Correct Answer: Amphetamine diet pills
Sara becomes addicted to amphetamine-based diet pills after being told she needs to lose weight for a potential TV appearance. Her growing dependence on the pills leads to severe physical and mental deterioration, including hallucinations and paranoia.
4) What is Harry Goldfarb’s dream in the movie?
Correct Answer: To open a clothing store
Harry Goldfarb, played by Jared Leto, dreams of opening a clothing store with his girlfriend, Marion. Their vision of a better life becomes increasingly unattainable as both fall deeper into heroin addiction, leading to a tragic unraveling of their relationship and futures.
5) What is the name of Harry’s girlfriend?
Correct Answer: Marion Silver
Marion Silver, portrayed by Jennifer Connelly, is Harry’s girlfriend and fellow addict. Initially a hopeful and ambitious designer, Marion’s descent into addiction and desperation becomes one of the film’s most heartbreaking storylines, culminating in self-destruction.
6) What substance are Harry, Marion, and Tyrone addicted to?
Correct Answer: Heroin
The three central characters — Harry, Marion, and Harry’s friend Tyrone — are all addicted to heroin. Their dependency drives the narrative’s downward spiral, affecting their relationships, physical health, and dreams of a better future.
7) What does Sara become obsessed with besides pills?
Correct Answer: Being on television
Sara Goldfarb becomes obsessed with the idea of appearing on television after receiving a phone call from a casting agency. Her fixation on losing weight and looking glamorous for her potential TV appearance feeds her descent into amphetamine addiction and psychosis.
8) What physical condition does Harry suffer from due to drug use?
Correct Answer: Infected arm
Harry develops a severe infection in his arm from repeated heroin injections. His refusal to seek medical help leads to a catastrophic outcome — the amputation of his arm. This physical manifestation of his addiction underscores the destructive consequences of substance abuse.
9) What is the name of the composer who created the iconic film score?
Correct Answer: Clint Mansell
Clint Mansell composed the haunting and unforgettable score for Requiem for a Dream. The piece “Lux Aeterna” became iconic beyond the film itself, used in numerous trailers and media. Mansell’s music amplifies the film’s emotional intensity and descent into darkness.
10) What is a central theme of Requiem for a Dream?
Correct Answer: Addiction and its destructive consequences
The film’s central theme is the devastating impact of addiction — not only to substances but also to dreams, ideals, and the need for validation. It explores how the characters’ desires and obsessions consume and destroy them, leading to physical, emotional, and psychological ruin. The film is a brutal commentary on the human condition and the fragility of hope.
