Dark
Dark, the debut feature film of up-and-coming Chicago-based indie filmmaker Darryl Bullock, became an official selection at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival, Chicago International Film Festival, Urbanworld Film Festival, and American Black Film Festival, and receives its first home video release from Cheeseburger Films. It tells the story of one Dark Freeman (Jason Bonner), a young African American man who finds himself torn between his tough urban roots - living as a resident on the impoverished, crime-ridden south side of Chicago - and his day-to-day life, in the comparatively wealthy and privileged University of Chicago, where he is enrolled as a student. Walking between the two worlds, Freeman must find a way to succeed in both, with the help of lovers, family members, close friends and acquaintances.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, who survives a difficult childhood, finds herself caught in a dangerous world of crime and addiction. She struggles to escape her past and the people who try to keep her trapped in a cycle of self-destruction. Her journey is a desperate fight for survival and a search for redemption.
Critical Reception
Dark received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics, with many citing a weak script, poor acting, and a nonsensical plot. While Mariah Carey's attempt at a dramatic role was noted, it was largely seen as a misstep. The film failed to find an audience and is considered a critical and commercial failure.
What Reviewers Say
- Widely panned for its convoluted plot and amateurish execution.
- Criticized for unconvincing performances, particularly from its lead.
- Regarded as a significant misfire in the careers of its cast and director.
Google audience: Audience reception for Dark is virtually non-existent, with the film having minimal viewership and no readily available user ratings or reviews on Google.
Fun Fact
Despite being Mariah Carey's feature film acting debut, the film was shelved for two years before a limited release and received no significant distribution.
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