“What is madness but nobility of soul at odds with circumstance.” – Theodore Roethke
That poetic line opens Dark My Light, the latest indie psychological thriller from director Neal Dhand. It’s a bold thematic choice—and a fitting one—for a film that dives headfirst into the fragile boundary between reality and madness.
At first glance, Dark My Light appears to be a straightforward serial killer story. A corpse and a severed foot wash up in a peaceful seaside town, prompting the arrival of Detective Mitchell Morse, played by Albert Jones. He’s paired with a new partner, whose controversial past only adds tension to an already strange case. But as the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the case is merely the surface layer. The real descent is inward—into Morse’s deteriorating mind.
The film doesn’t follow a traditional narrative path. Instead, it bends time and perspective. Scenes repeat with subtle differences. Chronology breaks. Reality seems to loop. It’s disorienting in a way that pulls the viewer into Morse’s unraveling psyche. This is where the film shines: it doesn’t just show madness—it makes you feel it.
Visually, Dark My Light is impressive. The cinematography captures the seaside setting in both its natural beauty and its eerie undercurrent. Careful attention is paid to lighting and composition, creating a sense of stillness that’s constantly under threat. There’s frequent use of dolly shots, which give the film a floating, dreamlike quality—though occasionally, the camera work borders on excessive. The score is another highlight. Subtle and atmospheric, the music doesn’t demand attention but enhances the unease that quietly builds throughout the film.
Performances are strong across the board. Albert Jones delivers a cold, internal performance that perfectly suits a character on the brink. Tom Lipinski (Suits) and Keesha Sharp (Lethal Weapon) also give grounded and believable turns that help anchor the narrative. The dialogue is sharp and thoughtfully written, with lines that leave a lasting impression.
However, where the film falters slightly is in its emotional core. The character relationships, particularly between Morse and a woman named Emily, lack the depth needed to fully connect the audience to their motivations. Emily’s presence is central to Morse’s unraveling, yet her backstory feels underdeveloped. As a result, some of the emotional stakes don’t fully land.
The film also leaves many questions unanswered—intentionally so. While some ambiguity can enhance a film, in this case, it may frustrate viewers hoping for clearer logic behind the time loops and surreal elements. Is it science? Magic? Trauma? The film offers hints, but little resolution.
Pacing may also be a barrier for some. After a strong opening, the middle portion drags slightly, requiring patience and full attention. That said, the film regains momentum toward the end, closing with a powerful and memorable final act that sticks with you long after the screen fades to black.
Dark My Light isn’t for everyone. It’s slow-burning and mysterious. But for viewers who enjoy psychological puzzles, layered storytelling, and a touch of sci-fi, this film offers an experience that’s both challenging and rewarding. Despite its flaws, it’s a memorable entry in the indie thriller space—and one worth watching–– it was released on video-on-demand platforms this May 6th.
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