Review: The Darkness (2016)

When it comes to supernatural horror, the genre is filled with tales of haunted houses, cursed objects, and spirits seeking vengeance. Enter "The Darkness" (2016), a film that attempts to weave its own path through the familiar territory of family-centric supernatural horror. Directed by Greg McLean, known for his work on "Wolf Creek", this movie presents a blend of eerie atmospheres and a domestic setting.

Plot Summary

The plot follows the Taylor family, who bring more than just vacation memories back home from a trip to the Grand Canyon. Unbeknownst to them, their young son Michael has picked up some ancient stones tied to a malevolent Native American spirit. As the family settles back into their daily lives, strange occurrences begin to unravel the fabric of their seemingly perfect existence. These events escalate from unsettling noises and inexplicable phenomena to full-blown supernatural chaos. The family must confront these dark forces and uncover the truth behind the curse that has invaded their home.

Performances

Kevin Bacon and Radha Mitchell headline the cast as Peter and Bronny Taylor, the parents trying to keep their family together amid the escalating chaos. Bacon brings his usual charisma to the role, portraying a father torn between skepticism and the need to protect his family. Mitchell gives a solid performance as a mother grappling with guilt and desperation. Their chemistry is believable, grounding the more fantastical elements of the story in a relatable family dynamic.

Young actor David Mazouz plays the pivotal role of Michael, the child inadvertently connected to the supernatural events. His portrayal is suitably eerie, capturing the innocence and vulnerability needed for the role. Lucy Fry rounds out the main cast as Stephanie, the Taylor's teenage daughter. While her character isn't as developed, Fry manages to deliver a credible performance, contributing to the overall family tension.

Direction and Craft

Greg McLean's direction brings a polished look to "The Darkness," though it occasionally leans on horror clichés and jump scares that seasoned genre fans may find predictable. The film's atmospheric tension is built through a mix of practical effects and CGI, with varying degrees of success. The use of shadows and sound design is particularly effective, creating an unsettling ambiance that lingers throughout the film.

The script, penned by McLean along with Shayne Armstrong and S.P. Krause, attempts to blend horror with themes of family dysfunction and redemption. While the narrative has potential, it sometimes struggles to maintain a consistent tone, shifting between horror and drama without fully committing to either. The cultural elements tied to the Native American mythology are intriguing but could have been explored in greater depth to enhance the story's uniqueness.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "The Darkness" might not be the crown jewel of a horror collection, but it does have its place. Its blend of supernatural horror with family drama could appeal to those who enjoy exploring the intersection of personal relationships and paranormal threats. The film's Blu-ray release offers a decent transfer, preserving the film's atmospheric visuals and sound design. Special features are somewhat sparse, but the quality of the main content makes it a solid pick for a physical media collection.

Rarity and Format

"The Darkness" is relatively easy to find, making it a common addition to most collections. The Blu-ray format is recommended for its superior picture and sound quality, providing the best viewing experience for the film's atmospheric elements.

In conclusion, "The Darkness" is a film with potential, though it may not fully realize it for every viewer. While it doesn't reinvent the horror genre, its exploration of family dynamics amidst supernatural chaos might strike a chord with some. If you're a collector who enjoys supernatural stories with a domestic twist, this film could be a worthy addition to your shelf.

Star Rating

2.5 out of 5 stars. While it has its moments, "The Darkness" struggles to stand out in a crowded genre. However, its focus on family dynamics provides a unique angle that may interest some collectors. Overall, it's a decent watch for a quiet night in, especially if you enjoy supernatural narratives.