All that evil requires is for good men to do nothing.|Aug. 12, 2021|New Zealand|93 Min.|R
Genre: Adventure;Crime;Drama;Horror;Mystery;Thriller
Description: The psychological thriller “Coming Home in the Dark,” produced in New Zealand, draws inspiration from the raw intensity of Australia’s 1970s and ’80s “Ozploitation” era. Directed by James Ashcroft, who co-wrote the screenplay with Eli Kent based on Owen Marshall’s short story, the film gradually unveils its gripping narrative. At first glance, it appears to follow an ordinary family—high school teacher Hoaggie (Erik Thomson), his wife Jill (Miriama McDowell), and her teenage sons Maika and Jordan (Billy and Frankie Paratene)—as they embark on a scenic picnic. Their peaceful outing takes a dark turn when they are confronted by Mandrake (Daniel Gillies), a charismatic yet menacing figure, and his silent accomplice, Tubs (Matthias Luafutu).
Initially, the encounter seems like a random act of violence. However, as Mandrake forces the family into their car, it becomes evident that Hoaggie is the specific target. The story delves deeper as Mandrake and Tubs probe Hoaggie about his possible involvement in a past national scandal. While the film hints early on at this connection, the latter half becomes repetitive as the captors continuously pressure Hoaggie to confess his potential role in a decades-old atrocity. Despite the tension, the emotional payoff feels somewhat underwhelming compared to the build-up.
Cast director: James Ashcroft
Cast actor: Daniel Gillies, Erik Thomson, Miriama McDowell, Matthias Luafutu, Frankie Paratene, Billy Paratene, Desray Armstrong
Original name: Coming Home in the Dark