If you enjoyed “Donnie Darko,” frequented Hot Topic, and cranked My Chemical Romance on your way to school, you’re likely to appreciate “The Crow.”

The R-rated film (currently showing in theaters) taps into a specific wave of millennial nostalgia reminiscent of dark 2000s movies such as “Twilight” and “Underworld.” These films are characterized by their shadowy aesthetics, emo soundtracks, and stylized action sequences. In short, watching “The Crow” might transport you back to your teenage years.

“We’re all still adolescents at heart,” director Rupert Sanders chuckles. “Fortunately, we work in a field that allows us to stay in that youthful mindset.”

The plot of “The Crow” centers around Eric (Bill Skarsgård), a recovering addict who utilizes supernatural powers to rescue his deceased girlfriend, Shelly (FKA Twigs), from hell. This film provides a fresh perspective on the 1994 original featuring Brandon Lee, which is celebrated for its remarkable soundtrack.

The original soundtrack claimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart and was later certified as platinum with over 3 million copies sold in the U.S., according to the Recording Industry Association of America. It featured an array of goth and heavy metal bands, including Nine Inch Nails, Stone Temple Pilots, Rage Against the Machine, Helmet, and Pantera.

“It was the first film specifically made for that audience, and it proudly celebrated that genre of music,” Sanders shares. In this reimagining of “The Crow,” he aimed to respect the original film’s hard-rock aesthetic while also incorporating electronic and new-wave artists that resonate with his own music preferences.

“It’s really focused on artists who have been creating dark love songs and melancholic music over the last three decades,” Sanders adds.

For the impressive new soundtrack, the British director drew inspiration from some of his favorite musicians from the late ’80s and early ’90s, including Joy Division (“Disorder”), Enya (“Boadicea”), and Gary Numan (“M.E.”). He also selected more contemporary tracks, like The Veils’ “Total Depravity,” which serves as a moody theme song for Eric as he pursues Shelly’s killers.

Foals’ electrifying “What Went Down” features prominently, and the emotional climax of the film showcases a haunting choral rendition of “Meaning” by French artist Cascadeur.

“‘Meaning’ is incredibly beautiful and captures (Eric’s) emotional journey perfectly,” says Sanders. He emphasizes that despite the movie’s graphic violent scenes, “it’s not just a revenge tale – it’s a love story. You always need to return to the emotion behind his quest.”

Twigs, transitioning from singer to actress, also contributed her musical expertise to the film. She penned an original song for an early scene where Shelly performs while playing piano. Additionally, her input was invaluable for another intimate montage of Eric and Shelly enjoying drinks, dancing, and sharing romantic moments.

“I played my playlist, and Twigs remarked, ‘Dude, this isn’t my uncle’s wedding!’” Sanders recalls. “She constantly brought music to the set, which helped us all relax. We formed a close-knit, creative family during filming.”