Super Dark Times (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Super Dark Times is an atmospheric thriller that grips its audience from the first scene. Released in 2017, this independent film directed by Kevin Phillips explores the turbulence of adolescence with a tragic twist, unraveling a story of friendship, guilt, and descent into darkness. With its haunting cinematography and stellar performances, it’s a film that leaves a lasting impression. In this article, we’ll dive into an in-depth review of Super Dark Times, while also helping you discover where you can stream or rent it online, especially for viewers in the United States.
Super Dark Times (2017) Synopsis
Super Dark Times takes place in a quiet suburban town in the 1990s, capturing the tension and confusion of teenage life. The film follows best friends Zach (Owen Campbell) and Josh (Charlie Tahan), who are navigating typical adolescent issues like crushes, boredom, and curiosity. Their world takes a dark turn when a tragic accident involving one of their classmates sets off a chain of events, pushing their friendship to its limits.
As the two boys attempt to cover up the incident, paranoia, fear, and guilt begin to manifest in increasingly disturbing ways. What starts as an innocent coming-of-age narrative quickly spirals into psychological horror as secrets tear apart the fragile bonds between friends.
A Powerful Coming-of-Age Horror
One of the most striking aspects of Super Dark Times is its ability to blend genres. While it initially feels like a typical coming-of-age story, it seamlessly transitions into psychological horror and thriller territory. The tension builds slowly, allowing the audience to become invested in the characters before the real terror unfolds.
The film is reminiscent of Stand by Me and Donnie Darko, in the way it portrays the complexities of adolescence while also delving into darker themes. This mixture of horror and drama is further amplified by the time period — set in the pre-digital age of the ’90s, when information wasn’t as easily accessible, and communication relied more on face-to-face interactions.
Stellar Performances and Direction
The performances in Super Dark Times are exceptional. Owen Campbell and Charlie Tahan deliver raw and emotional portrayals of teenage boys dealing with unimaginable circumstances. Their chemistry is palpable, which makes their eventual fracture all the more devastating.
Director Kevin Phillips, in his feature debut, demonstrates an incredible understanding of tone and atmosphere. His use of moody lighting, coupled with dream-like sequences, builds an eerie, suspenseful mood throughout the film. The cinematography, handled by Eli Born, is visually stunning. The bleakness of suburban life is contrasted by the beauty of nature, creating a surreal and haunting backdrop for the story.
Exploring Themes of Guilt and Friendship
At its core, Super Dark Times is a film about guilt and how it can consume a person. Zach and Josh’s friendship is tested by the weight of their secret, and the film does an excellent job of showing how trauma can affect young minds. The psychological toll of their actions is evident in both characters’ downward spirals, but each reacts differently, offering a fascinating study in contrast.
The film also touches on how difficult it is for teenagers to express themselves. Both Zach and Josh struggle to communicate their feelings of fear and regret, further complicating their ability to process what they’ve done. This inability to articulate emotions is central to the film’s tension and serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges of adolescence.
Where to Watch Super Dark Times Online
For those interested in watching Super Dark Times, there are several streaming and rental options available in the U.S. Here’s where you can find it online:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Super Dark Times is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch it without additional cost, making it a convenient option for Prime members.
- Shudder: If you’re a horror fan, you’re likely familiar with Shudder, a streaming service dedicated to all things spooky. Super Dark Times is part of its catalog and can be streamed with a subscription.
- Sling TV: For those who prefer live TV services, Sling TV offers Super Dark Times as part of its on-demand library.
- Hulu (with Shudder add-on): Hulu subscribers with the Shudder add-on can also stream the movie as part of their package.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Video: If you’re not a Prime member, you can still rent or purchase Super Dark Times on Amazon. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchase prices range from $7.99 to $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent at around $3.99 or purchase for approximately $9.99.
- Apple iTunes: Similarly, iTunes offers both rental and purchase options, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases at $12.99.
- Vudu: This platform offers both SD and HD options for renting or buying. Rentals start at $2.99, and the purchase price is around $9.99.
Why You Should Watch Super Dark Times
Super Dark Times is a haunting film that doesn’t rely on jump scares or cheap thrills. Instead, it builds a sense of dread through its atmospheric storytelling and deeply emotional performances. It’s a film that lingers with you long after the credits roll, making you reflect on the fragility of friendship and the weight of guilt.
While it’s not a typical horror movie, fans of psychological thrillers and dark, character-driven stories will find much to appreciate here. The film’s exploration of the human psyche, paired with its strong direction and performances, make it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys independent cinema that pushes boundaries.
Final Thoughts
Super Dark Times is a gem of a film that deserves more recognition than it’s received. Its blend of psychological horror and coming-of-age drama makes it stand out in a crowded genre, while its stellar performances and direction elevate it to a must-watch status.
If you’re looking for a film that’s equal parts chilling and emotionally resonant, this is one to add to your watchlist. And with a variety of streaming and rental options available, it’s easier than ever to experience the dark, gripping world of Super Dark Times.
By understanding where to watch and the elements that make this film great, you can enjoy one of the most underrated films of 2017 from the comfort of your home.
