In the world of cinema, there are often surprises that shake up our expectations and challenge traditional storytelling conventions. One such example is the recently released film, 'Out of Darkness,' directed by Andrew Cumming. This mesmerizing debut feature takes audiences on a journey to a desolate Scottish island 45,000 years ago, where a tribe of people find themselves hunted by a mysterious enemy.
At first glance, 'Out of Darkness' seems like a typical monster movie, as the tribe grapples with an unseen threat that picks them off one by one. However, around the one-hour mark, Cumming takes a bold twist, revealing that the antagonist is not a monster at all. Instead, it turns out to be a pair of Neanderthals, who coexisted with Homo sapiens in Western Europe before going extinct.
Drawing inspiration from iconic films like 'Jaws' and 'Alien,' Cumming cleverly restrained himself from showing the enemy until the perfect moment. By making them look eerily similar to the tribe members, he blurs the lines between predator and prey, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. This unexpected reveal sets the stage for a devastating third act, as the tribe must confront their fears and decide whether they can survive against their own kind.
While this twist left some viewers divided, Cumming believes it delivers a powerful message. He highlights that the film explores the theme of fear, not only the fear of a physical threat but also the fear that comes from mistrust and uncertainty. The director aptly captures the essence of the film's relevance, describing how it mirrors our current world, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic when trust seemed to fade away.
One unique aspect of 'Out of Darkness' is the use of an entirely made-up language called 'Tola.' Andrew Cumming's commitment to creating an authentic world led him to work with linguist Daniel Andersson, who developed Tola as the tribe's origin language. Though initially tempted to shoot the film in English, Cumming decided against it, fully immersing the audience in this ancient world. While Tola may be unfamiliar to viewers, it allowed for a deeper level of immersion and focus on the characters' emotions rather than getting caught up in the nuances of the English language.
The film also features standout performances from Safia Oakley-Green, Kit Young, and Luna Mwezi. Oakley-Green shines as Beyah, a fierce young warrior who faces blame from the men in her tribe due to her menstruation. Young portrays Geirr, a compassionate character with a weak stomach, delivering a nuanced performance that adds depth to the story. Mwezi's dedication is evident as she shaved her head to fully transform into Heron, a remarkable young character who captivates audiences.
Clocking in at a brisk 87 minutes, 'Out of Darkness' proves that a film doesn't need excessive runtime to captivate and deliver a compelling story. Cumming succinctly crafts a beginning, middle, and end, keeping the pace engaging throughout. This approach respects the busy lives of the audience, offering a thrilling experience without overstaying its welcome.
In conclusion, 'Out of Darkness' defies expectations with its unexpected twist and thought-provoking themes. Andrew Cumming's debut film is a testament to his storytelling prowess, utilizing subtlety and intrigue to explore primal fears. With its use of a unique language, captivating performances, and concise runtime, this film is a memorable addition to the cinematic landscape. Whether you're a fan of monster movies or prefer thought-provoking narratives, 'Out of Darkness' is a must-see for those seeking a fresh take on ancient fears.
