Horror film fans have certainly had their fair share of movies introduced as “survival horror films” and viewed characters “survive” what we know in modern times. Out of Darkness is directed by Andrew Cumming from a script by Ruth Greenberg, based on a story he and Oliver Kassman created. This film is different in that the characters, living 45,000 years ago, are starving and desperate. A group of six people set out to find a new home and struggle across a narrow sea. Often, they feel as if there is nothing around them, but it is not long before they find out they are not alone.
With this clan of six making the journey is a family of four: Adem (Chuku Modu) and his pregnant wife, Ave (Iola Evans), and two children, Heron (Luna Mwezi) and Geirr (Kit Young). An elder (Arno Lüning) joins them, although not in complete agreement with what Adem elects to do, including taking a “stray” Beyah (Safia Oakley-Green, “Sherwood” TV series). She tries to warn of the potential dangers. Adem has ideas of how Beyah can serve him (and the group) on the journey. As the fear and dread build from the mysterious being tormenting them, Beyah demonstrates her courage and ability to fight back to survive. I like how the screenwriter gives the character Beyah the strength to go on and prove she is not to be underestimated. Oakley-Green is the winner of the British Independent Film Award in the Breakthrough Performance category, and she has some powerful scenes to keep the audience on the edge of their seat.
The film boasts some excellent cinematography from Ben Fordesman (Saint Maud) of the landscapes and many close-up shots of the actors demonstrating their fear and terror. Many night scenes are shot well to keep the tension going during most of the film. Out of Darkness is shot on location in the Scottish Highlands.
I did not anticipate seeing what is tormenting the group in the film, and some horror fans may find it disappointing. I am surprised but not disappointed. This film can create exciting conversations about early humans and humans now.
The filmmakers have created an entirely new language for the film, and there are subtitles.
The film had its world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival and its North American premiere at Fantastic Fest in Austin. It was nominated for five British Independent Film Awards this past year, with a win for breakthrough performance for Safia Oakley-Green.
Produced by Oliver Kassman (Saint Maude) and Executive Produced by David Kaplan (Short Term 12) and Sam Intili (I Saw the TV Glow).
Run Time: 87 minutes and is rated R. Out of Darkness will be in theaters nationwide on Friday, February 9, 2024.
Source: Bleecker Street