For this year’s 31 Nights of Horror Challenge, the Night 13 prompt is New to Me. We watched the movie Dark Nature (2022) on Amazon Prime

Storyline

The story of a therapy group that is forced to confront the monsters of their past when an isolated weekend retreat tests their emotional resilience and ability to survive.

‘Dark Nature’ delivers heart-pounding suspense with stunning mountainous cinematography and strong performances from its lead actresses. The unpredictable plot keeps viewers guessing with its ambiguous blend of psychological trauma and supernatural elements. However, the film suffers from weak writing with bland dialogue, uneven pacing that rushes toward its finale, and underdeveloped characters that some found unsympathetic. The horror elements prove divisive, with mixed opinions on execution despite effective tension-building throughout.

Our thoughts on Dark Nature (2022)

At the outset of the movie, a conflict emerges, giving us hope that the film will at least meet our expectations. However, as the conflict unfolds, it becomes evident that this trendy approach offers nothing but vacuous and inconsequential dialogue, along with aimless pacing. Who is truly interested in watching the protagonists wander aimlessly? Unfortunately, the director seems to be fascinated by it.

Overall, it is yet another sorrowful horror film centered around a wild recluse lurking in the forest, preying on unsuspecting victims. While it is challenging to sympathize with the characters, there is an undeniable desire to see “him” apprehend everyone swiftly. The cinematography lacks originality, with the cameraman failing to capture the raw human fear, the arduous struggle, and the inherent beauty of the surrounding woods.

3 out of 10 stars 

Trivia 

Filmed in the Canadian Rockies with almost entirely with practical FX and real stunts.

The film also features the first-ever movie score composed by acclaimed Canadian and Metis art-rock band Ghostkeeper.