30 Days of Night: Dark Days (2010) – Movie Review
Introduction
“30 Days of Night: Dark Days,” released in 2010, is a horror film directed by Ben Ketai. A sequel to the 2007 film “30 Days of Night,” it continues the story of Stella Oleson as she seeks vengeance against the vampires that destroyed her life. The film, based on the graphic novel series by Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, aims to deliver the same chilling atmosphere and intense horror as its predecessor. This review covers the plot, performances, direction, and overall impact of the film, along with information on where to stream or purchase it in America.
Plot Summary
The story picks up a year after the events in Barrow, Alaska, where vampires slaughtered most of the town’s residents during a month-long polar night. Stella Oleson (Kiele Sanchez), one of the survivors, is now in Los Angeles, determined to expose the existence of vampires to the world. She frequently speaks at conferences and public events, hoping to convince others of the supernatural threat.
During one of her presentations, Stella is approached by a group of vampire hunters—Paul (Rhys Coiro), Todd (Harold Perrineau), and Amber (Diora Baird). They share a common goal: to eliminate the vampire queen, Lilith (Mia Kirshner), and put an end to the terror. Stella reluctantly joins them, driven by her desire for revenge and closure.
The group embarks on a dangerous mission, navigating through the dark underworld of vampires. As they get closer to Lilith, they face numerous challenges, betrayals, and horrific encounters, testing their resolve and survival skills.
Performances
Kiele Sanchez takes on the role of Stella Oleson, previously played by Melissa George. Sanchez brings a determined and gritty edge to the character, portraying Stella’s trauma and thirst for vengeance with conviction. While her performance is solid, the character development feels somewhat limited compared to the original film.
Mia Kirshner delivers a chilling performance as Lilith, the vampire queen. Her portrayal is menacing and captivating, adding a sinister presence to the film. Kirshner’s ability to convey cold, calculated evil makes Lilith a memorable antagonist.
The supporting cast, including Rhys Coiro, Harold Perrineau, and Diora Baird, contribute effectively to the film. Each character brings a distinct personality and skill set to the vampire-hunting team, though the script doesn’t fully explore their backstories or motivations.
Direction and Cinematography
Ben Ketai, co-writer of the original “30 Days of Night,” steps into the director’s role for this sequel. Ketai’s direction maintains the dark and ominous tone of the first film, focusing on the grim reality of battling vampires. However, the sequel lacks the atmospheric tension and suspense that made the original so compelling.
Cinematographer Eric Maddison uses a muted color palette and shadowy lighting to create a sense of dread and foreboding. The film’s visual style aligns with the graphic novel’s aesthetic, though the limited budget is evident in some of the special effects and set designs.
Critique
“30 Days of Night: Dark Days” attempts to expand the story and mythology of the original film, but it falls short in several areas. The plot is straightforward and predictable, relying heavily on horror clichés and action sequences. The character development is minimal, making it difficult for viewers to fully invest in the protagonists’ journey.
The film’s pacing is uneven, with moments of intense action interspersed with slower, dialogue-heavy scenes. While the action sequences are thrilling, they lack the visceral impact of the original film’s climactic battles.
Despite these shortcomings, the film delivers on its promise of horror and gore. Fans of the vampire genre will appreciate the brutal confrontations and sinister atmosphere, even if the sequel doesn’t quite live up to the original’s standard.
Streaming and Purchase Options
For those interested in watching “30 Days of Night: Dark Days,” there are several options available in America:
- Streaming Services: The film is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Subscribers to these services can watch the movie at no additional cost.
- Rental and Purchase: You can rent or purchase the movie on digital platforms like Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. Prices for renting typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchasing the film can cost between $9.99 to $14.99 depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
“30 Days of Night: Dark Days” provides a continuation of the vampire horror story introduced in the original film, focusing on Stella Oleson’s quest for vengeance. While it struggles with pacing and character development, the film offers a dark and gritty horror experience with enough thrills to satisfy fans of the genre. The accessible streaming and rental options make it easy for viewers to delve into this grim sequel and witness the ongoing battle against the undead.
