The Darkness (2016 film)

Plot Summary

The Darkness is a 2016 American supernatural horror film directed by Greg McLean and written by McLean, Shayne Armstrong, and S.P. Krause. The film follows a family that returns home from a vacation at the Grand Canyon and begins to experience strange, supernatural occurrences linked to ancient Native American spirits.

The plot centers around the Taylor family: Peter (played by Kevin Bacon), Bronny (played by Radha Mitchell), their teenage daughter Stephanie (played by Lucy Fry), and their autistic son Michael (played by David Mazouz). During their trip to the Grand Canyon, Michael discovers and takes home some ancient Anasazi stones, which unknowingly unleash malevolent spirits.

Upon their return, the family starts to experience bizarre and frightening events. Michael's behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and he starts to communicate with invisible entities. The spirits begin to manifest in the house, causing physical disturbances and psychological torment. As the hauntings escalate, the family seeks the help of a spiritual healer to rid their home of the dark forces.

Cast

Kevin Bacon as Peter Taylor
Radha Mitchell as Bronny Taylor
David Mazouz as Michael Taylor
Lucy Fry as Stephanie Taylor
Ming-Na Wen as Wendy
Paul Reiser as Simon Richards
Jennifer Morrison as Joy Carter

Production

The Darkness was produced by Blumhouse Productions, known for its work in the horror genre. The film's production involved extensive research into Native American mythology and the Anasazi culture to create an authentic and compelling narrative. The filmmakers aimed to blend traditional horror elements with cultural folklore to deliver a unique cinematic experience.

The film's principal photography took place in Los Angeles, California, and the Grand Canyon. The production team faced challenges in capturing the eerie and supernatural atmosphere required for the film, particularly in the scenes involving the spirits and their interactions with the characters.

Themes

The Darkness explores several themes, including the impact of ancient curses, the intersection of modern life with traditional beliefs, and the psychological effects of supernatural phenomena. The film delves into the concept of autism through the character of Michael, whose condition makes him more susceptible to the influence of the spirits. The narrative also touches on family dynamics and the strain that supernatural events can place on relationships.

Reception

The Darkness received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film's atmosphere and performances, others criticized its reliance on genre clichés and predictable plot twists. The film's depiction of Native American mythology was also a point of contention, with some reviewers questioning the accuracy and sensitivity of its portrayal.

Despite the mixed critical reception, The Darkness performed moderately well at the box office, grossing over $10 million worldwide. The film's commercial success can be attributed to its association with Blumhouse Productions and the popularity of supernatural horror films.

Cultural Significance

The film's use of Native American mythology and the Anasazi stones as central plot elements highlights the ongoing fascination with indigenous cultures in popular media. The Darkness contributes to the broader conversation about cultural representation in horror films and the ethical considerations of using traditional beliefs for entertainment purposes.