Dark

"Dark" is a poignant exploration of identity and the struggles faced by young African American men navigating complex socio-economic landscapes. Directed by the talented Darryl Bullock, this debut feature film emerged as one of the standout indie productions at prominent film festivals including the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival, the Chicago International Film Festival, the Urbanworld Film Festival, and the American Black Film Festival. It captures not only the spirit and resilience of its characters but also the harsh realities of life in a city where hope and despair often coexist.

The narrative centers on Dark Freeman, portrayed by the rising star Jason Bonner, who epitomizes the conflict many in his community face. Residing in the impoverished and crime-ridden south side of Chicago, Freeman wrestles with the realities of his upbringing while striving to carve out a place for himself at the prestigious University of Chicago. The juxtaposition of his existence in a world marked by privilege and opportunity against the backdrop of his roots creates a rich, multi-layered storyline that resonates with audiences. Throughout the film, viewers witness Freeman's evolution as he learns to balance his past with his aspirations for the future.

With its authentic portrayal of contemporary issues, "Dark" emphasizes the importance of community, support, and the sometimes harsh journey towards self-acceptance. As Freeman navigates his relationships with family, lovers, and friends, the film showcases the dynamics of personal struggle and triumph. The first home video release from Cheeseburger Films promises to bring this compelling story to a wider audience, inviting them into a narrative that is at once specific in its cultural context yet universally relatable in its exploration of ambition, identity, and belonging.

Full Cast of Dark

Elijah Long as Roe

Elijah Long

Roe
Vince Green as Troy

Vince Green

Troy
In the gripping sci-fi thriller 'Dark', Vince Green delivers a performance that is both haunting and compelling in his portrayal of Troy, a character whose arc is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Green brings a palpable intensity to the role, adeptly navigating the complex layers of Troy's persona, from his stoic exterior to the vulnerable depths that lurk beneath the surface. His portrayal is a study in subtlety, as he conveys a sense of gravitas and inner turmoil with minimal dialogue, relying instead on his expressive eyes and nuanced body language. Green's Troy is a magnetic presence on screen, drawing viewers into his enigmatic journey as he confronts the dark realities of a world where time is a malleable and dangerous force. His performance is a testament to his range as an actor, as he effortlessly transitions from quiet introspection to moments of raw emotion, anchoring some of the film's most pivotal scenes with authenticity and depth.
Janina Gavankar as Kaya

Janina Gavankar

Kaya
Janina Gavankar delivers a compelling performance as Kaya in the movie 'Dark', bringing a nuanced blend of strength and vulnerability to the complex character. Kaya, a woman caught in the crossfire of a chaotic underworld, is portrayed by Gavankar with a palpable intensity that anchors the emotional core of the film. Her ability to convey Kaya's inner turmoil through subtle facial expressions and a measured physicality adds depth to the narrative, while her interactions with other characters reveal a resilience and determination that drive the story forward. Gavankar's portrayal is a testament to her range as an actress, as she seamlessly navigates the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that define the film's dark and gritty atmosphere. Her performance is a standout aspect of 'Dark', leaving a lasting impression on the audience and showcasing her talent for bringing multifaceted characters to life on screen.
Kwame Amoaku as Dap

Kwame Amoaku

Dap
In the movie 'Dark', Kwame Amoaku delivers a compelling performance as Dap, a character whose presence is both enigmatic and pivotal to the film's narrative. Amoaku brings a nuanced depth to Dap, portraying him as a man of few words but with a strong, silent demeanor that commands attention. His interactions with other characters are measured and deliberate, often conveying more with a glance or a gesture than many characters do with dialogue. Amoaku's portrayal is particularly noteworthy in the way he balances Dap's stoic exterior with subtle hints of an internal struggle, adding layers of complexity to the character. His performance is a testament to his ability to create a memorable character without the need for an abundance of screen time, leaving a lasting impact on the audience and contributing significantly to the film's dark and mysterious atmosphere.

Jason H. Bonner

Dark Freeman

Elizabeth Isibue

Sophie

Sonny Coleman

Dewey

Jed Spiregelman

Lipschitz

Sheldon Kurtz

Dean Martin

Eric Neil Gutierrez

Professor

Crew of Dark

Full backstage crew list →