Hold the Dark
Hold the Dark

Hold the Dark

2018Movie125 minEnglish

In the grim Alaskan winter, a naturalist hunts for wolves blamed for killing a local boy, but he soon finds himself swept into a chilling mystery.

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Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes71%
Metacritic61/100
Google Users63%
Director: Jeremy SaulnierGenres: Action, Crime, Drama, Horror, Thriller

Plot Summary

In a remote Alaskan village grappling with a series of children disappearances, a naturalist is called upon to hunt down the wolf responsible. However, when the children's vengeful mother takes matters into her own hands, the situation escalates into a brutal and violent pursuit that engulfs the isolated community.

Critical Reception

Hold the Dark received mixed to generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its atmospheric tension, visceral violence, and strong performances, particularly from Jeffrey Wright. However, some found the narrative convoluted and the bleak tone overwhelming. Audiences were similarly divided, appreciating its dark themes and striking visuals but often finding it challenging and grim.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its intense atmosphere and brutal, unflinching depiction of violence.
  • Jeffrey Wright's performance is a standout, grounding the film's darker elements.
  • Criticized by some for its slow pacing and complex, at times confusing, narrative.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's intense and dark atmosphere, with many highlighting the strong performances and unique visual style. However, some found the plot to be overly convoluted and the overall experience quite grim and disturbing, leading to a divided audience reception.

Fun Fact

Director Jeremy Saulnier originally envisioned the film as a TV series before adapting it into a feature film.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

***Unpredictable bleak Alaskan adventure, mystery, thriller*** An author and wolf expert (Jeffrey Wright) arrives at a remote village in Alaska to help rid the town of a wolf problem that has resulted in a few dead children. Riley Keough...
Gimly

Gimly

I have... **No** idea what I just watched... But that bit in the middle was like something straight out of a _Payday 2_ heist, so I'm cool. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._