Super Dark Times (2017)

Super Dark Times (2017): A Haunting Exploration of Teenage Angst and Tragedy

Introduction

Released in 2017, Super Dark Times is a psychological thriller that delves deep into the dark and twisted world of adolescence. Set against the backdrop of a seemingly ordinary suburban town, the film exposes the fragility of teenage friendships and the devastating consequences of a single, reckless moment. Directed by Kevin Phillips and featuring a compelling screenplay co-written by Kevin Phillips and Ben Collins & Luke Piotrowski, Super Dark Times is a gripping narrative that holds the audience in suspense while exploring themes of guilt, loss, and the descent into paranoia.

Plot Summary

The story revolves around two best friends, Zach and Josh, whose bond begins to unravel after a tragic accident involving a deadly knife. The film opens during the summer before the friends are scheduled to start high school, capturing a time in their lives filled with innocence, camaraderie, and youthful restlessness. However, this idyllic period is shattered when, during a careless knife fight, Josh accidentally kills their mutual friend, Daryl.

The incident marks a turning point for Zach and Josh, sending them down a dark spiral of fear, mistrust, and paranoia. As the weight of their secret grows heavier, Zach becomes increasingly anxious and detached, while Josh wrestles with guilt and the pressure to conceal the truth. Their once inseparable friendship begins to fracture, exacerbated by their attempts to cope with trauma and the looming threat of exposure.

The film masterfully portrays the psychological turmoil experienced by the boys, highlighting how the trauma of a single event can drastically alter lives. The tension escalates as Zach discovers unsettling truths and realizes that Josh may not be the friend he once knew. The story culminates in a chilling climax that underscores the fragility of human relationships and the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.

Main Cast

• Owen Campbell as Josh: Campbell delivers a nuanced performance embodying the complexity of a teenager grappling with remorse and fear.
• Charlie Tahan as Zach: Tahan portrays Zach with sensitive intensity, capturing the character’s descent into paranoia and mistrust.
• Alex Wolff as Daryl: Though his screen time is limited due to the circumstances of the plot, Wolff’s portrayal adds depth to the friendship dynamic.
• Elizabeth Cappuccino and other supporting actors: They contribute significantly to building the film’s unsettling atmosphere and authenticity of the high school setting.

Director and Writers

Kevin Phillips helms the film as director, marking a significant entry in his career with Super Dark Times. Phillips co-wrote the screenplay alongside Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski, whose collaboration crafts a tightly-woven and chilling narrative. Their writing balanced authentic teenage dialogue with an escalating sense of dread, creating a palpable mood that resonates throughout the film.

Visual and Thematic Elements

The film’s cinematography effectively captures the eerie and claustrophobic atmosphere enveloping the characters. Subtle use of lighting and color palettes highlights the transition from carefree summer days to cold, shadowed nights fraught with tension. The soundtrack, largely composed of atmospheric and ambient sounds, complements the film’s unsettling tone, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully in the story’s emotional undercurrents.

Reception and Impact

Upon its release, Super Dark Times was praised by critics for its thoughtful portrayal of teenage trauma and psychological complexity. It stands apart from conventional thrillers by focusing less on jump scares and more on character development and emotional depth. The film resonated with audiences as a haunting reminder of how fragile youth and friendship can be when exposed to tragedy.

Conclusion

Super Dark Times (2017) is a compelling psychological thriller that masterfully explores the dark consequences of a pivotal moment in adolescence. With strong performances by Owen Campbell and Charlie Tahan, and the skilled direction and writing of Kevin Phillips alongside his co-writers, the film offers a gripping, suspenseful experience grounded in realism and emotional intensity. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate a haunting and thought-provoking story about the complexities of friendship, guilt, and the unsettling shadows of youth.

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