Film Near Dark
Film Near Dark is a 1987 American neo-western horror film directed by Kathryn Bigelow, stars Adrian Pasdar and Jenny Wright.
Key Takeaways
- A unique blend of genres, mixing western and horror elements.
- Well-received by critics, praised for its atmospheric tone.
- Explores the dark side of humanity and confronts notions of identity.
Background
Near Dark follows the story of Caleb, a small-town young man who becomes a vampire after a chance encounter with a beautiful and mysterious girl named Mae.
The film delves into the struggles of balancing his newfound bloodthirsty existence with his humanity.
The Blend of Genres
The film successfully combines elements of the western and horror genres, which sets it apart from other vampire movies of the time.
Near Dark presents vampires as outlaws, painting a picture of a nomadic gang that prowls the night, seeking blood rather than gold.
- By merging these genres, the film explores themes of solitude, moral ambiguity, and survival.
The Critically Acclaimed Atmosphere
Critics have praised Near Dark for its dark and atmospheric tone that adds depth to the film’s narrative.
The film skillfully captures the gritty and desolate landscapes of the American Southwest, creating a haunting backdrop for the characters.
Near Dark is often lauded for its moodiness and the palpable tension that is maintained throughout the story.
Exploring Dark Themes
One of the film’s strengths is its exploration of the dark side of humanity and its impact on identity.
The character of Caleb is faced with the dilemma of embracing his dark desires or holding onto his humanity despite the temptation.
- The film raises questions about the nature of evil and the possibility of redemption.
- It also highlights the struggle of outsiders, as the vampire gang represents a marginalized community that is not easily accepted by society.
Interesting Data Points
| Release Year | Genre | Director |
|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Neo-western, Horror | Kathryn Bigelow |
The film had a limited release but gained a cult following over the years.
Box Office Performance
| Budget | Domestic Gross | Worldwide Gross |
|---|---|---|
| $5 million | $3.4 million | $5 million |
Near Dark did not fare well commercially, but its critical acclaim solidified its place in the horror genre.
Legacy and Influence
The film’s unique take on vampires and its atmospheric storytelling have influenced subsequent vampire films and TV shows, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
As a cult classic, Near Dark continues to be celebrated for its innovation and its exploration of the boundaries of traditional genres.
Final Thoughts
Near Dark is a captivating film that pushes the boundaries of genre conventions, offering a blend of western and horror elements.
The film’s atmospheric tone, exploration of dark themes, and enduring influence make it a must-watch for fans of both genres.
Common Misconceptions
The movie “Near Dark” is about vampires
One common misconception about the film “Near Dark” is that it is about vampires. While it is true that the characters in the movie display vampiric qualities like being nocturnal and drinking blood, they are never explicitly referred to as vampires in the film.
- The characters in “Near Dark” do not have fangs like traditional vampires.
- Unlike traditional vampires, sunlight does not harm the characters in “Near Dark.”
- The mythological lore around vampires is not explored or referenced in the film.
“Near Dark” is a horror movie
Another misconception about “Near Dark” is that it is purely a horror movie. While it does contain elements of horror, the film combines various genres such as Western, drama, and romance.
- The movie features intense action sequences, not just typical horror scares.
- The romance between the two main characters adds a layer of emotion and vulnerability.
- The film explores complex family dynamics, adding a dramatic dimension to the story.
“Near Dark” is a well-known and commercially successful movie
Contrary to popular belief, “Near Dark” is not a widely recognized or commercially successful film. Despite being directed by the acclaimed director Kathryn Bigelow, the movie initially received mixed reviews and performed poorly at the box office.
- The film has gained a cult following over the years but remains relatively unknown to mainstream audiences.
- “Near Dark” did not receive any major awards or nominations.
- The commercial failure of the movie led to it being overshadowed by other films of the time.
“Near Dark” is a remake or sequel to another film
One misconception surrounding “Near Dark” is that it is a remake or sequel of another film. However, “Near Dark” is an original story written by Kathryn Bigelow and her frequent collaborator Eric Red.
- There is no pre-existing source material for the film, making it an entirely unique creation.
- The movie’s narrative and characters are independent of any other cinematic universe.
- “Near Dark” does not continue or expand upon any previous storylines or characters.
“Near Dark” is a mainstream Hollywood production
While “Near Dark” was directed by a prominent Hollywood filmmaker, it cannot be classified as a mainstream Hollywood production. The film was released by a small independent distribution company, Vestron Pictures.
- The movie was given a limited theatrical release, making it less accessible to a wider audience.
- “Near Dark” has a grittier and more unconventional tone compared to typical Hollywood films.
- The independent nature of the production allowed for more creative freedom and experimentation in storytelling.
Introduction:
Film Near Dark is a critically acclaimed vampire film directed by Kathryn Bigelow and released in 1987. The movie follows the story of a young man who encounters a group of nomadic vampires and becomes part of their twisted world. Exploring themes of love, violence, and the darkness within, Near Dark has become a cult classic in the horror genre. In this article, we present ten interesting tables that highlight various elements and data related to the film.
1. Cast and Crew:
| Director | Kathryn Bigelow |
|—————-|——————————-|
| Writer | Eric Red, Kathryn Bigelow |
| Main Cast | Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen |
2. Release Details:
| Release Date | October 2, 1987 |
|————–|—————————-|
| Distributor | De Laurentiis Entertainment Group |
| Box Office | $3.4 million (worldwide) |
3. Critical Reception:
| Review Aggregator | Rotten Tomatoes |
|——————|—————————-|
| Rating | 88% (based on 41 reviews) |
| Consensus | “Near Dark is at once a creepy vampire film, a thrilling western, and a poignant family tale, with humor and scares in abundance.” |
4. Awards and Nominations:
| Award | Category | Result |
|——————————–|————————————-|———————|
| Saturn Awards (1988) | Best Horror Film | Nominated |
| Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films (1989) | Best Supporting Actor (Lance Henriksen) | Nominated |
5. Soundtrack:
| Track | Artist |
|—————–|———————————-|
| “Fever” | Mad Dog and the Pups |
| “Fire in the Sky” | Tangerine Dream |
| “Dark Night” | The Blasters |
6. Filming Locations:
| Location | Description |
|————–|—————————|
| Midwest | Rural areas of Oklahoma |
| Los Angeles | City scenes |
7. Influences:
| Influences | Notes |
|——————-|————————————-|
| Bram Stoker’s Dracula (novel) | Inspiration for vampire mythology and themes |
| Western films | Contributed to the film’s unique blend of genres, incorporating elements of the Wild West |
8. Special Effects:
| Special Effects | Description |
|—————–|—————————————-|
| Practical effects | Utilized for the majority of vampire transformations and gore scenes |
| Stop-motion animation | Employed for certain surreal sequences, adding a distinctive visual style |
9. Legacy:
| Legacy | Notes |
|——————-|—————————————-|
| Cult Classic | Despite a modest box office performance, the film gained a dedicated following over the years |
| Influence on Genre | Considered a landmark vampire film for its unconventional take on the genre |
10. Homage and References:
| Homage/Reference | Description |
|——————————-|—————————————-|
| “From Dusk Till Dawn” (1996) | Shared theme of a group of vampires roaming the American Southwest |
| “The Lost Boys” (1987) | Released the same year as Near Dark, both films explored the vampire theme in distinct ways |
Conclusion:
Film Near Dark has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, captivating audiences with its unique blend of vampire lore, western elements, and thought-provoking storytelling. Despite its initial commercial reception, the film has gained recognition as a cult classic, celebrated for its originality and influence on the horror genre. From its talented cast and crew to its haunting soundtrack and captivating visuals, Near Dark continues to be remembered and appreciated by fans and critics alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the film Near Dark about?
Near Dark is a 1987 American neo-western horror film directed by Kathryn Bigelow. The movie follows a young man named Caleb Colton who becomes involved with a group of nomadic vampires. It explores the themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.
Who are the main characters in Near Dark?
The main characters in Near Dark are Caleb Colton, a young man who falls in love with a vampire named Mae; Mae, a vampire and Caleb’s love interest; Jesse Hooker, the leader of the vampire group; Diamondback, Jesse’s partner and fellow vampire; Severin, a violent and unpredictable member of the group; and Homer, a young boy who has been a vampire for over a century.
Is Near Dark a horror film?
Yes, Near Dark is classified as a horror film. It combines elements of Western, thriller, and vampire genres to create a unique and atmospheric horror experience. The movie contains scenes of violence, gore, and suspense.
Did Near Dark receive any awards or nominations?
While Near Dark was not a major commercial success upon its release, it has gained a cult following over the years. The film was nominated for several awards, including the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film and the International Fantasy Film Award. Though it did not win any of these awards, it is highly regarded by fans of the genre.
Who directed Near Dark?
Near Dark was directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Bigelow is known for her unique approach to filmmaking and has directed various critically acclaimed films, including The Hurt Locker, for which she won the Academy Award for Best Director.
Where was Near Dark filmed?
The majority of Near Dark was filmed in various locations in Oklahoma, United States. The film showcases the rural landscapes and small towns of Oklahoma, adding to the gritty and realistic atmosphere.
What is the rating of Near Dark?
Near Dark is rated R by the Motion Picture Association due to its violent content, language, and suggestive scenes. The film is intended for mature audiences and is not suitable for young children.
Is Near Dark a vampire movie?
Yes, Near Dark is a vampire movie. It presents a unique and unconventional take on the vampire mythology, portraying the vampires as a nomadic and violent group. The film explores the traditional vampire themes of immortality, bloodlust, and the struggle for control.
When was Near Dark released?
Near Dark was released in theaters on October 2, 1987. The film initially received mixed reviews but has since gained a dedicated fan base and is considered a cult classic.
Can I stream Near Dark online?
Yes, Near Dark is available to stream on various online platforms. It can be rented or purchased digitally on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and iTunes. Additionally, it may also be available for streaming through subscription-based services like Hulu or Netflix.
