Super Dark Times

Super Dark Times is a potent and compelling psychological thriller directed by Kevin Phillips, marking his feature-length debut. The film was released in 2017 and stars Owen Campbell, Charlie Tahan, and Elizabeth Cappuccino in leading roles. Set in the mid-1990s, it sharply captures the subdued intensity of adolescent friendships and the lurking peril that can ignite from innocence.

Owen Campbell plays Zach, a sensitive and somewhat introverted teenager growing up in the small, suburban town that serves as the film's backdrop. Alongside him is his best friend Josh, portrayed by Charlie Tahan, who carries a certain aloof charisma that draws Zach closer, adding depth to their relationship. Their rapport encapsulates the real spirit of boyish adolescence, filled with trivial squabbles, laughter, shared secrets, and a popular culture that acts as an unspoken language. The duo floats within the whirlpool of their stagnant little town, facing the typical difficulties of suburban life and simultenously staring down the barrel of adulthood.

Elizabeth Cappuccino shines in her portrayal of Allison, Zach's romantic interest. She adeptly embodies the quiet allure of the girl next door, channeling the confusion and complexity of teenage emotions. Her character and the developing relationship with Zach adds a tender thread of young love to the narrative's fabric, at the same time increasing the stakes and tension.

Director Phillips cleverly opts for the 90s backdrop, allowing for an ever-present sense of nostalgia. The film brings forth nuance and excitement not only by cross-referencing classic cultural Touchstones of the period but also by emphasizing the lack of ever-present digital technology. It characterizes the era realistically and reminds viewers of a time when teenagers were not continually plugged into a digital world. This choice adds a deeper layer of authenticity to Zach and Josh's relationship, highlighting their bond while subtly reinforcing the loneliness and isolation of their suburban setting.

Super Dark Times paints the latter part of the film's title on the screen with a broad brush. An unforeseen tragedy escalates tension within the group, suddenly transforming the mundane life into a horrifying ordeal. This tragic event magnifies the characters' inner fears and insecurities, giving an edge to their otherwise routine teenager dilemmas. The growing paranoia and unease manifests itself in haunting visions, blending a sense of reality and almost surreal sequences that delve deep into the characters' psyche.

One of the film's strongest attributes is the atmospheric tension itself. The movie builds a resonating sense of dread, occasionally making the audience uncomfortable, while carefully avoiding the easy shock factors. The cinematography exemplifies this, capturing the beauty and tranquility of the suburban backdrop while simultaneously hinting at the lurking darkness. The visuals remain immersive, building an eerie calm before the storm and complementing the nerve-racking sequences.

The performances by the young actors in Super Dark Times are exceptional. Campbell and Tahan, in particular, deliver nuanced and layered performances that peel off their characters' layers as the narrative progresses. Their portrayals of Zach and Josh highlight the bright innocence of their youth and the harrowing transformation they undergo due to the circumstances around them. Equally impressive is Cappuccino's performance as Allison, bringing warmth and depth that keeps the audience engaged.

The superficial tranquility of Super Dark Times unravels into a horrid nightmare that dives deep into the psyche of teenage angst, friendship, guilt, and the loss of naivety. The film stands as a meticulously crafted tapestry of adolescent experiences, with the loss of innocence and the approach of a cruel reality. These emotions are often swept away, yet, are resurrected effectively in this thrilling, coming-of-age narrative.

In conclusion, Super Dark Times is a gripping, discomforting tale of the transition from carefree youth to the realization of life's brutality. Amidst its hauntingly beautiful cinematography and intense performances, the film captures the complexities, the innocence, and the darkness of adolescence with unflinching authenticity. For anyone interested in psychological and emotional journeys, this film stands as a captivating experience that lingers in the mind, long after the end credits roll.