And Soon the Darkness (2010) Movie Review
A Tense and Atmospheric Thriller
And Soon the Darkness, directed by Marcos Efron, is a 2010 remake of the 1970 British thriller of the same name. This film, starring Amber Heard, Odette Yustman, and Karl Urban, transports the suspense to the picturesque yet eerie landscapes of rural Argentina. With a blend of mystery, tension, and atmospheric visuals, And Soon the Darkness provides a gripping tale of survival and friendship.
Plot Overview
The film follows two American friends, Stephanie (Amber Heard) and Ellie (Odette Yustman), who are on a cycling trip through the Argentine countryside. Seeking a break from their guided tour, they decide to venture off on their own, only to find themselves in a remote and sparsely populated area. When the friends have a disagreement and separate, Ellie goes missing, leaving Stephanie desperate to find her.
As Stephanie searches for Ellie, she encounters Michael (Karl Urban), a fellow traveler with a mysterious past who offers to help. The investigation uncovers a web of danger and deception, revealing that the area has a dark history of kidnappings. Stephanie must navigate this perilous situation to save her friend before it’s too late.
Characters and Performances
Amber Heard delivers a strong performance as Stephanie, portraying her character’s transformation from carefree tourist to determined survivor with conviction. Odette Yustman brings energy and charm to the role of Ellie, making her character’s disappearance all the more impactful. Karl Urban adds depth and intrigue as Michael, whose ambiguous intentions keep the audience guessing.
The supporting cast, including César Vianco as Calvo, the local police officer, and Michel Noher as Chucho, a suspicious local, contribute to the film’s suspenseful atmosphere.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Marcos Efron creates a tense and foreboding atmosphere, effectively using the stunning yet isolated Argentine landscape to amplify the film’s sense of danger and urgency. The wide-open spaces and rural settings are captured beautifully by cinematographer Gabriel Beristain, whose work enhances the film’s visual appeal and adds to the suspense.
Themes and Suspense
And Soon the Darkness explores themes of friendship, trust, and the vulnerability of being a stranger in an unfamiliar place. The film’s suspense is built through its pacing, music, and the increasing sense of isolation and peril faced by the characters. The thriller elements are well-executed, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds.
Streaming and Rental Options in the US
For those interested in watching And Soon the Darkness, there are several streaming and rental options available in the United States:
- Streaming Services: The film is available on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Both platforms offer extensive libraries of movies and TV shows, making it convenient for subscribers to access the film.
- Rental/Purchase: You can rent or purchase the movie on Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. These platforms provide the flexibility to rent the film for a limited period or purchase it for unlimited viewing.
Final Verdict
And Soon the Darkness is a well-crafted thriller that successfully combines beautiful visuals with a gripping narrative. The strong performances by Amber Heard and Karl Urban, coupled with Marcos Efron’s effective direction, make this film a worthwhile watch for fans of suspense and mystery. The film’s ability to maintain tension and keep the audience engaged, despite some predictable plot points, showcases its strength as a modern thriller.
With multiple streaming and rental options available, viewers in the United States can easily access And Soon the Darkness and immerse themselves in its atmospheric and suspenseful story. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or simply looking for a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat, And Soon the Darkness delivers an engaging and visually stunning experience.
