PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Dark Sky Films is known for releasing quality horror films of all kinds, and I’m always excited about their releases. That being said, although PopHorror did a lot of coverage for The Dark, I never had much interest in it until it was called one of the best films of 2018. That definitely peaked my interest, and I knew I had to watch the DVD.
This new horror tale is the debut feature film from Director/Writer Justin P. Lange. The cast includes rising actors Nadia Alexander (USA’s The Sinner) and Toby Nichols (Netflix’s Iron Fist).
Synopsis for The Dark
On the outskirts of a small town lies Devil’s Den, a mysterious tract of woods where many have entered but no one has ever left. The local legend is that the spirit of a girl who was horrifically murdered there haunts – and hunts – in this dense forest, brutally slaying anyone who dares to step into her terrain. When a young man with a dark past crosses her path, a series of events are set in motion that may lead to redemption for two tragically tortured souls.
Honestly, this film blew me away with its enchanting horror story packed full of mystery, wonder, pain and unlikely friendships. I’ve seen The Dark described as many things, including a Gothic fairy tale. I can relate to that. Part of this film felt like a modern day Beauty and the Beast story… two unique characters who find one each other in the worst of times and develop an unusual relationship that neither knew they needed. It’s heartbreakingly beautiful.
“So, you believe in monsters?”
The Dark has a bit of slow build up, taking its time telling the story of each character and how things came to be. Personally, I thought that was the best approach, as it gave the viewers time to get to know the characters and see the friendship build, despite knowing their tragic pasts. It also shows that monsters are real, they’re just often in disguise.
Nadia Alexander and Toby Nichols give outstanding and gut-wrenching performances throughout the film. They’re both very different, but their pain and loneliness connect them. Survival is the one thing they have common, and that’s the only thing they know how to do – survive to the next day. Their characters grow and learn so much from one another, including what it means to love and trust.
I also thought the special effects and makeup were brilliant and very uneasy to look at. It makes you cringe thinking about how these two got their scars and the real monsters who gave it to them.
Final Thoughts:
I fully agree that The Dark is one of the best films of 2018, and I would highly recommend everyone giving it a chance. It’s a true tale of monsters, unlikely friendships, and the things people will do just to survive another day. It is officially out on DVD, so don’t miss out!
