The Dark Side of the Sun

The Dark Side of the Sun is a captivating drama film released in 1988. This film features a young Brad Pitt in one of his early roles, backed by talented supporting casts including Guy Boyd and Cheryl Pollak. Directed by Božidar Nikolić, this movie was shot across the picturesque landscapes of Yugoslavia, providing visual strength to this compelling story.

The film revolves around Pitt's character, a young man named Rick who is suffering from a rare skin disease that forces him to avoid sunlight. Throughout his life, he tries to lead a normal life during the day but is always forced to wear heavy clothing and a mask that hides his identity. His inability to enjoy the warmth of the sun adds a dimension of vulnerability and frustration into his character that Pitt portrays authentically, thus making the audience relate to his predicament on a deep emotional level.

Rick’s father (Guy Boyd) is a researcher completely devoted to finding a cure for his son's ailment. He is depicted as a man driven by the guilt and responsibility of his son’s condition. The turmoil of his struggle to find a cure and the simultaneous management of his professional and personal life adds a subplot to the story, furnishing the character with purpose and depth.

Cheryl Pollak plays a young woman who becomes intertwined in Rick's life. Without knowing Rick's condition, she forms a bond with the mysterious and reclusive man. Her character is deeply sympathetic, and her role emphasizes how human connections can form regardless of physical appearance or circumstance.

A significant part of the narrative involves the traditional celebrations of the area which provides a stark contrast against the heavy subject of the film. These sequences underscore Rick's longing to be a normal young man, able to join in the festivities without concern for his health. The director uses these celebrations as a motif – a symbol of life, joy, and freedom that is tantalizingly out of Rick’s grasp due to his health condition.

On a technical level, the movie is engaging, with the inspiring landscapes of Yugoslavia serving as a potent background to the narrative. The film's cinematography is expertly constructed, featuring a myriad of rustic, golden-lit scenes that provoke nostalgia, providing a sharp contrast to Rick's concealed life in shadows.

The screenplay of The Dark Side of the Sun maintains a balance between sentimentality and suspense, weaving an intricate canvas of connections between the characters while also keeping the audience in anticipation of the existing and impending dilemmas, specifically regarding Rick's disorder. The dialogue is punctuated with profound one-liners that provide insights into the characters' emotional states, hence enhancing its dramatic appeal.

Brad Pitt's performance in this film is worth noting – before he gained his superstar status – where he conveys Rick's predicament completely, giving the audience a full sense of the character's emotional turmoil. It's a solid early performance from an actor who would go on to become one of Hollywood's biggest stars. Guy Boyd's portrayal of the father is powerful and full of nuanced emotions, offering a layered performance that adds depth to the narrative. Cheryl Pollak also delivers a respectable performance, her character's growth and emotional journey throughout the film resonate authentically.

Despite its early release, The Dark Side of the Sun bears a thematic weight and delivers an emotionally charged story that is still relevant today. It delves into universal themes of despair, isolation, struggle, as well as hope, courage, and human connection. Above all, the movie brings to the fore a poignant exploration of the human spirit, our innate longing for normalcy, and the power of hope in the face of despair.

In conclusion, The Dark Side of the Sun is a compelling drama that might appeal to those who enjoy character-driven narratives with complex emotional themes. It is a shining example of a film that uses a medical predicament to reflect on deeper metaphysical and existential questions, all set against a vibrant cultural backdrop. Whether you are a fan of Brad Pitt keen on exploring his early works or a cinephile looking for thought-provoking narratives, this film is an engaging watch.