Hold the Dark

Synopsis

Hold the Dark is a gripping thriller set against the stark, haunting wilderness of Alaska. The story follows Russell Core, a wolf expert who is summoned to a remote village to investigate a series of mysterious wolf attacks believed to be linked to a missing boy. As Core delves deeper into the dark, frozen landscape and encounters the hermetic locals, he uncovers more than just the answers to the boy’s disappearance. The film explores themes of primal instincts, human nature, and the thin veil between civilization and wilderness, weaving a tense, chilling narrative that challenges the boundaries of morality and survival.

Cast

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  Jeffrey Wright

  Russell Core

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  Alexander Skarsgård

  Vernon Slone

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  James Badge Dale

  Donald Marium

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  Riley Keough

  Medora Slone

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  Julian Black Antelope

  Cheeon

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  Tantoo Cardinal

  Illanaq

Reviews

Hold the Dark received a mixed to positive reception from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 69% approval rating, reflecting generally favorable reviews. Critics praised the film’s atmospheric visuals and the moody, immersive portrayal of Alaska’s bleak environment. Jeffrey Wright’s performance was noted as compelling, bringing gravitas to the enigmatic story. However, some reviewers criticized the narrative for being overly ambiguous and the pacing for feeling sluggish at times. Metacritic gave it a score of 63 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews but with reservations. IMDb users rated it 5.6 out of 10, suggesting a more divided audience response. The Guardian commended the film’s surreal and poetic qualities, describing it as a "meditative thriller with chilling moments," while Variety noted that it is "impressively atmospheric but occasionally frustrating in its cryptic storytelling." Overall, Hold the Dark is recognized for its striking cinematography and intense mood but may not satisfy viewers seeking a straightforward plot.