Brave the Dark

Excellent story of unconditional love, for a young man who needed guidance and someone who truly cared about him with no strings. We all know someone like the main character. Hopefully many of us would go out of our way to help someone who could use our help. Before judging someone because of what you've heard or their actions remember you don't know what's going on in that person's life it may have caused them to react in that way, we must be understanding and loving. Treating people with respect and showing them, they have worth is very important, especially in the dark days we are living in.

This is a beautiful film about fatherhood and a story much needed for our current times. The always impressive Jared Harris portrays a good natured teacher who takes Nathan, a troubled teenager under his wing, trying desperately to help him through kindness, empathy, and genuine good humor. All of this is confusing to Nathan who is not used to such concern, and is heavily burdened by his own self-hatred. Harris plays a less serious role than I've seen him play previously and he exudes a confident, fun-loving nature which keeps the viewer invested every time he is on screen. Nicholas Hamilton's performance cannot be overlooked either, and his tortured and engaging demeanor provides an electrifying contrast.

The film definitely delivers on its title, more than earning it's strong PG-13 rating, but does not dwell upon the horrors of trauma to such a degree that it taints the message of redemption. That being said, the resolution does feel a bit too quick, having a hopeful tail-end timejump when I felt some more healing could be shown after such a jarring reveal. Nevertheless, the message and direction overcome the film's shortcomings making this a great story for adults.

Nice to see a movie which was based on true story stick to the realities without need for gratuitous shock values. The storyline caught my attention. As per another review the editing was not well done. The acting quality was average and did not feel the main character, teenager, did not communicate the angst or anger he felt due to the traumatic event at a young age. Also, more character development would be helpful. Especially in regards to the grandparents. Did not understand why they were so distant and angry to have put the kid in an orphanage. The film clip at the end with the real teenager all grown up was the most uplifting part of the film. Definitely got the message across to look for the good in each person.

Wonderful film with a fine script and terrific acting.

The lead actor - the teacher whom I remember from Mad Men - is great in this role as the supportive and optimistic foil for the boy in need.

The boy who shares a dark secret is effective and believable as a tortured soul who needs a break

That it's a true story makes it all the more powerful

The writing - dialogue and character development - is strong and the message is clear.

It's not often that a film will teach the moviegoer valuable lessons on how we need to support others in need. Showing you care and helping a stranger overcome obstacles can have a long lasting effect.

The Harris brothers came with the heat on this film. And Nicholas Hamilton does an incredible job matching Jared Harris' energy. Love every second we get of them together on screen.

This film is a testament to the fact that you never know how deeply you can alter the course of someone's life by showing up.

Nate played by Hamilton has a deeply troubled past and horrible mentors as his life spirals into a destructive path. Nearing rock bottom, his teacher Mr. Deen (played by Harris) sees the good in Nate and chooses to show up for him when nobody else would.

If you want to feel uplifted this New Year 2025, go see Brave the Dark!