The Dark

I had no real expectations going into this, nor did I read a synopsis. It just seemed like the kind of horror movie I like, so I took a flyer on it. Let me just say: I'm really glad I did. It's really lovely to go into a movie and then watch it unfurl in front of you in unexpected, well-done ways, to build characters and bring them to fruition in a very touching manner, all while telling a dramatic-horror story that doesn't shirk from darkness and gore, when necessary. All this to say: an extremely well-done film. If you tend toward the indie side of things, then this is definitely for you. However, like I said, there is also plenty of traditional horror happenings, but they are all in service of the story (excellent!).

Let me start a new paragraph to sing the praises of two things: the direction/cinematography and the lead actress. The director also wrote the film, and the cinematographer is listed as co-director as well, and this shines through in some absolutely gorgeous frames where the camera is held still in some beautiful shots. As with all great direction, there are no wasted movements or shots here: the camera is moving when it needs to, and when it needs to be still, it is. But while all of this techinical work was excellent, the real star of the film is the lead actress, Nadia Alexander. She is absolutely remarkable, fleshing out the totality of a role that in the hands of a lesser actress would be one-note and usual. Her character arc is a marvel to behold, and I would be very surprised not to see her continue to blossom in larger profile roles as she gets older.

In summation: if you like indie dramatic-horror that prizes story/characters as much as scares/gore, then this movie is definitely for you. A Must See, in my humble opinion....

A solid movie in all aspects. However, Nadia Alexander kills it. An actor who can anchor a scene and bring intensity and believe-ability to most anything. The film touches on some dark themes and subjects throughout and does a good job of revealing what matters to the story. No spoilers, but the ending did what I was hoping for and not what I thought it might do instead which would have had it perhaps take a more tropey direction. The set was great and the make-up was exceptional.

Just finished watching and came here to review it. I've noticed that not everybody was impressed with it, perhaps some missed the point or maybe they into a different type of horror. I think The Dark did a great job in showing a rather new perspective of this genre, it was intriguing, well executed and had nice acting attached to it.

You will see the drama in it, that is for sure, but it still stands tall as a horror piece. Just not one that relies on gore, jump scares or torture porn. A story like I've never seen so far, doesn't take its sweet time to build itself up, it dives in and dare I say, it delivers!

All in all, The Dark is an excellent option for anyone that wants to see something different, new and provocative. Highly recommended.

Cheers!

This one kinda surprised me. I started watching with zero expectations and it gradually grew onto me. The way the mood has been set here is commendable. With those haunting shots in those far away locations; they give you a feel of isolation. The clever use of sound did make the movie more interesting. The performances as well were genuinely good. Nadia Alexander as Mina just stole the show.

Although the characterizations left a taste of Incompleteness. The lack of information for the character of Alex is perplexing! As he was one of the main leads over there! The slow pace helped in terms of setting the right atmosphere and keeps you hooked through. But at the same time it often became the sole reason for the movie to holding back.

The story conveys Child Abuse, Tortures, Sufferings. And How it could turn someone into a 'Monster' Or A 'Helpless' being. And in that scenario All we need is for humanity to strike back. To have Its presence felt once again. In order to revert back to our natural being and to move on with our life. It portrays the struggles that the victims suffer, the traumas they carry all their lives. It shines the torch on those Teenagers/Children who have broken down mentally or even worse turned into something more horrible just because of their unfortunate painful past. This one speaks for the horror that are around us. It speaks about the Monsters who resides among us. It certainly strikes deeper than usual. And that's What I very much admire.

I really liked that portrayal here. The message here is surely subtle. You need to be invested thoroughly in order to grasp the idea. But you must. The only complaint I have is the wasted opportunity on so many aspects. The promising premise should have hold onto its true potential rather than becoming a mediocrity in the end because of inexperienced writing and Lack of well put explanations. Nonetheless it is a Good watch. One of the better ones in Indie Horror.

Not a horror film. Unique story between two unfortunate Souls. Wish is was longer and told more!