Dawson ditches 'Creek' for drugs

The Rules of Attraction" went woefully unseen in its theatrical run this past fall. Many expected a funny, randy collegiate romp, but the flick is based upon a novel by "American Psycho" author Bret Easton Ellis. The film that unfurled was a funny, randy collegiate romp, albeit a pitch black one. \nJames Van Der Beek headlines as Sean, a disillusioned, yuppie drug-peddler. Sean longs for little more than his next high, that is, until he meets Lauren (Shannyn Sossamon), an elusive little skater chick. Then his thoughts immediately turn to bedding her. She previously dated Paul (Ian Somerhalder), a gay dude who's currently lusting for Sean. But ideally, Lauren would like to sleep with Victor (Kip Pardue), a self-loving lothario in the midst of a drug-induced European pilgrimage.\nAll the players in this serio-comedic collegiate nightmare are morally reprehensible. They swig, smoke, snort and screw like it's going out of style. The fact that all this debauchery is presented in such a cool, detached manner rife with ironic humor is the film's saving grace. \nThe DVD, while good, is not quite up to snuff with the flick itself. Rumors are afoot that writer/director Roger Avary is prepping an unrated 2.5 hour director's cut for release on DVD later this year. So perhaps this disc is just a primer? Regardless, what's here ain't too shabby. \nFans of commentary tracks should have a heyday with the disc. There are five revolving door commentaries, in which the cast and crew discuss their specific scenes, and a solo track by everyone's favorite, fire-haired comedian. No, not Kathy Griffin -- Carrot Top. This, despite the fact he had absolutely no involvement with the film whatsoever. Surprisingly, he's funny. There's also an episode of the Sundance Channel's "Anatomy of a Scene," which chronicles the lensing of the flick's "money" shot -- a split-screen melding together a singular image. Really cool, interesting stuff. \nAvary injects "Rules" with style to burn. The film is told in a nonlinear manner and is brimming with cinematic razzle-dazzle. As such, it's one of 2002's best and least seen flicks. Now that it's available on DVD, any adventurous cineaste worth his or her salt would be well advised to check it out.