“Hold the Dark” (2018) Movie Review: A Haunting and Atmospheric Thriller
Introduction
“Hold the Dark,” a 2018 psychological thriller directed by Jeremy Saulnier, is based on the novel by William Giraldi. Starring Jeffrey Wright, Alexander Skarsgård, and Riley Keough, the film weaves a chilling tale of mystery and survival in the Alaskan wilderness. This review explores the film’s narrative, performances, and atmospheric qualities while providing information on where to stream or rent it in the United States.
Plot Summary
Set in a remote Alaskan village, “Hold the Dark” follows retired naturalist and wolf expert Russell Core (Jeffrey Wright), who is summoned by Medora Slone (Riley Keough) to track down the wolves that took her son. As Core delves into the wilderness and the mystery deepens, he uncovers disturbing secrets about the Slone family. Meanwhile, Medora’s husband, Vernon (Alexander Skarsgård), returns from the Iraq War and sets off on a vengeful path. The film builds a sense of unease and dread as it explores themes of nature, violence, and the darkness within.
Performance and Direction
Jeffrey Wright delivers a compelling and understated performance as Russell Core, capturing the character’s quiet determination and growing sense of dread. Alexander Skarsgård is menacing and intense as Vernon, embodying a chilling force of vengeance. Riley Keough’s portrayal of Medora is haunting and enigmatic, adding to the film’s unsettling atmosphere. Director Jeremy Saulnier masterfully creates a sense of isolation and tension, using the Alaskan setting to enhance the story’s bleak and eerie tone.
Cinematography and Soundtrack
The cinematography, led by Magnus Nordenhof Jønck, is one of the film’s standout features. The stark, icy landscapes of Alaska are captured with breathtaking beauty, contrasting with the film’s dark and violent narrative. The use of natural light and shadow adds to the film’s atmospheric quality. The soundtrack, composed by Brooke Blair and Will Blair, complements the visuals with an eerie and minimalist score that heightens the sense of unease.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Hold the Dark” is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. Subscribers can easily access the film on the platform.
Rental and Purchase Options
As “Hold the Dark” is a Netflix original film, it is not available for rental or purchase on other major streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play, or Vudu. To watch the film, a Netflix subscription is required.
Conclusion
“Hold the Dark” is a haunting and visually stunning thriller that delves into the darkest aspects of human nature and the wilderness. With strong performances, particularly by Jeffrey Wright and Alexander Skarsgård, and Jeremy Saulnier’s adept direction, the film offers a gripping and atmospheric experience. While its slow pace and ambiguous narrative may not appeal to everyone, fans of psychological thrillers and atmospheric cinema will find much to appreciate in “Hold the Dark.”
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