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The Darkening

Name: The Darkening
Director: William Mesa
Released: 1995
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

1995

PG-13

Director

William Mesa

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Darkening operates as a typical mid-90s occult horror film, heavily reliant on established genre clichés. The narrative structure favors traditional power dynamics and conventional archetypes over complex, layered identities. Characters follow predictable roles, with the male protagonist driving the investigation while the female character mainly serves as a catalyst. The story stays within a narrow, Western-centric framework focused on supernatural conflict. Overall, the film lacks significant representation of diverse identities, favoring a homogeneous cast and traditional approaches to spiritual conflict.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Darkening have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on a traditional investigative dynamic between two protagonists. There is no indication of non-binary gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The Darkening portray gender?

Fair

The story features a gendered contrast between the female innkeeper and the male investigator. While the woman holds local authority, the male lead drives the plot and uncovers secrets.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Darkening?

Limited

The narrative centers on a small, isolated group of characters. The story suggests a homogeneous cast typical of mid-90s coastal horror, without mentioning diverse ethnic backgrounds.

How does The Darkening represent religion and culture?

Fair

The plot delves into occultism and satanic relics through a Western spiritual perspective. It emphasizes moral absolutes rather than exploring various religious or secular viewpoints.

Does The Darkening include disability representation?

Minimal

The protagonist experiences psychic flashes and visions. It is unclear if these represent a neurodivergent experience or are just standard supernatural elements.

Present on Screen

The female innkeeper holds a position of local authority.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks visible racial and ethnic diversity in its cast.
The narrative relies on traditional gender roles and straight-centered dynamics.
The spiritual themes follow a narrow, Western-centric moral framework.
There is no evidence of LGBTQ+ representation or non-cisgender identities.

Official Synopsis

A secluded, idyllic hideaway on the California coast hides a horrific secret in this occult chiller. Rebecca Lacey runs a clifftop inn that appears peaceful, but when psychic investigator Scott Griffin comes for a visit, he uncovers evidence of an alarming evil that resides there. Plagued by fearsome visions and psychic flashes, he is led to an ancient relic covered with esoteric writing. He soon recognizes it as a satanic tool thought to have been annihilated centuries ago; now Griffin must face its evil powers.

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