I Used to Be Darker
When Taryn, a Northern Irish runaway, finds herself in trouble in Ocean City, MD, she seeks refuge with her aunt and uncle in Baltimore. But Kim and Bill have problems of their own: they’re trying to handle the end of their marriage gracefully for the sake of their daughter Abby, just home from her first year of college. A story of family revelations, looking for love and figuring out where to find it next.
Insights
Plot Summary
A family in Baltimore is fractured when a teenage girl, seeking to escape a troubled past, unexpectedly returns home. Her reappearance forces her parents and husband to confront simmering resentments and unresolved issues. The film explores themes of regret, forgiveness, and the complex dynamics of family ties.
Critical Reception
I Used to Be Darker received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its realistic portrayal of family struggles and strong performances. Some found the pacing deliberate, but the emotional authenticity resonated with many.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic and nuanced portrayal of family dysfunction.
- Appreciated for strong performances, particularly from the lead actors.
- Some noted its quiet, deliberate pacing as potentially alienating for some viewers.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's realistic depiction of complex family relationships and its emotional depth. Many found the performances compelling and the story relatable, appreciating its understated approach to difficult themes.
Awards & Accolades
Premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2013.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Baltimore, Maryland, lending a sense of authenticity to its setting and characters.
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