In Darkness 2018

Art & Craft

Art & Craft shines through in the film’s confident camera placement and chiaroscuro lighting that evoke the protagonist’s blindness. The cinematography frequently employs close framing to heighten suspense, and selective use of shadow enhances the noir ambiance. Although some sequences feel overstyled and a few action beats register as awkwardly cut, the overall production design and visual cohesion maintain a distinctive mood throughout the runtime.

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character & emotion, Natalie Dormer’s portrayal provides most of the film’s emotional weight. Her committed performance registers a believable struggle with sensory deprivation, and supporting actors like Jan Bijvoet add credible menace. However, certain side roles, notably the primary antagonist and peripheral figures, lack nuance and depth. On balance, the film benefits from a strong lead presence despite uneven development of its ensemble.

Story & Flow

Story & Flow presents an engaging premise but is undermined by erratic pacing and narrative gaps. The first act effectively establishes tension and promise through gradual reveals, yet the second half introduces twists that often feel underexplained. Moments of clever plotting emerge sporadically, but lingering ambiguities and plot holes disrupt the overall coherence. Consequently, the thriller sustains intermittent suspense but never fully resolves its structural inconsistencies.

Sensory Experience

The Sensory Experience is a clear asset, driven by a taut sound design that immerses viewers in the lead’s auditory perspective. A minimalist, tension-focused score underlines key moments without overwhelming the visuals, and the noir-tinged color palette reinforces the film’s cold atmosphere. Combined with precise editing rhythms in its best sequences, these elements create a consistently engaging sensory environment despite occasional ornamental excess.

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch Factor is moderate due to the film’s striking style but uneven storytelling. While viewers may appreciate the visual motifs and lead performance on subsequent viewings, unresolved plot details and pacing lulls limit long-term enjoyment. The thriller’s conceptual strengths and technical polish offer some incentive to revisit key moments, but the narrative inconsistencies ultimately reduce its lasting appeal.