The Strange Dark

The Strange Dark is a rare blend of heart and imagination. It's an edgy, inventive take on sci-fi with a strong emotional core. At its heart, it's a story about a family that's flawed, funny, and deeply human. The narrative takes risks, yet always circles back to something warm and profoundly moving. By the end, what lingers is the tenderness of its resolution... a reminder that even in the strangest circumstances and with a key that unlocks mysteries of the universe, love and family remain paramount.

This story reads as science fiction but it would be more accurate to describe as suspense with a science fiction Macguffin. It is full of surprising characters and twists, all the more astonishing for taking place in an ordinary looking home.

Not surprisingly the best roles go to the villains played by a creepy Carmen Borla and and alternatively hilarious and scary Bates Wilder.

In a world plagued by cynical Hollywood blockbusters constantly undermining their own sincerity with poorly-timed jokes and wildly unfunny memes, The Strange Dark is a rare treat: a film that deftly balances tense drama and witty banter while keeping its emotional center intact. It's a story that, at its core, is about two "families" in conflict with each other, and with themselves. The stakes are small, but very personal-a trait represented in part by its setting, which keeps the whole narrative rooted in one house, though with plenty of fun twists and surprises along the way to keep that small scope interesting. It's a film driven by strong characters and their relationships with each other. Those clever, friction-filled dynamics make even the quieter scenes buzz with tension that holds up well on additional viewings. The Strange Dark is clever, it's exciting, it's laugh-out-loud funny, and it's a wonderfully fun watch. But, most importantly of all, it's got heart. It's one of the best movies I've seen all year, and I'm eagerly awaiting its wide release so I can watch it again!

The script and the acting are the stars of this film. The story went in surprising directions and the acting kept me riveted and eager for a good outcome for the characters. Smart, funny, and thrilling. The fact that the story is set in one location makes the film that much more impressive. They say every story's already been told, and it's difficult nowadays to subvert an audience's expectations, but this film certainly does that. It was never predictable and I was delighted to be taken along on the journey of these characters. A truly original story with wonderful actors and solid direction. Highly recommend!

One of the smartest and most original films I've ever seen! From the very first scene, it grips the audience and immerses them in a true cinematic experience.

The plot unfolds like a beautifully layered mystery, keeping you guessing until the final moments. With its charming characters, sharp comedic timing, and abundance of heart, this film strikes a perfect balance between intrigue and warmth.

Writer and director Chris Messineo has crafted a genuine masterpiece, drawing inspiration from classics like The Twilight Zone and Men in Black. These influences are seamlessly woven into a fresh, modern narrative that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

This is a film that will captivate audiences and stands as undeniable proof that original storytelling is alive and well!