‘Brave the Dark’ Honors a Real-Life Hero

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Inspirational teacher stories never get old.

Despite potentially becoming overly sweet, repetitive, or even manipulative, “Brave the Dark” skillfully avoids these issues largely due to its compelling male protagonists.

In a more relaxed phrasing: Actor Jared Harris plays his part perfectly as the enigmatic teacher. Meanwhile, newcomer Nicholas Hamilton shines brightly as the tormented adolescent, masterfully portraying a simmering anger and an unfulfilled potential lurking just beyond reach.

In the ’80s style, young character Nate Williams (from Hamilton) embodies the typical high school athlete. He has a girlfriend, exudes an overconfidence that doesn’t quite match his achievements, and navigates through life with a questionable sense of right and wrong.

It’s challenging for people, even the audience, to support him because he comes across as difficult. However, one of his teachers at school, a rather traditional individual known as Mr. D (Harris), perceives more than just Nate’s superficial traits.

In my own words, I’m much like Stan Deen – a familiar figure within my local community of Pennsylvania. There’s always a chuckle when I make an appearance, as people recognize me from my regular haunts. It’s all in good fun and part of the charm that keeps our community close-knit and welcoming.

Ah, small town life!

Nate’s personal history provides an insight into why he struggles. Growing up, he lost his mother, and his grandparents didn’t offer much affection or care. In fact, they were eager to break away from him.

It will require all of Stan’s compassion to change this young person’s life, if it’s even possible for him to do so.

In an unconventional manner, Hamilton, portraying a youthful Kevin Bacon, excels in his role. He’s never portrayed as a monster, but whenever a chance presents itself, he eagerly seizes it to dismiss or reject it. The actor skillfully makes both aspects of Nate’s character believable.

Stan isn’t ready to give up on him, though. He’s just as stubborn in his own way.

In my opinion, “Brave the Dark” doesn’t redefine the concept of redemption or the obstacles encountered on the journey. Instead, it offers a solid story that resonates with our nobler selves. And for me, that’s more than sufficient.

Stan appears almost too perfect, yet there’s a hint of melancholy in him. For years, he devoted himself tirelessly to nursing his ailing mother, which left its mark on him. He’s wise enough to embrace the affection of his students while acknowledging that they view him as outdated and old-fashioned.

And he is.

Harris’ acting is subtly captivating, filled with soft comments that elevate the script. Stan’s character navigates the challenging task of caring for a troubled adolescent, providing the movie with its emotional depth.

TIDBIT: In truth, Nate Deen – a co-writer of the script – confirmed that Tom Hanks, in the movie, donned some of Stan Deen’s actual ties and eyeglasses.

In “Brave the Dark,” Harris gave yet another strong performance, but his motivation was heightened because the movie’s director and co-writer was his younger brother, Damian Harris, a seasoned actor himself. Moreover, their sibling Jamie Harris portrayed the character of Nate’s probation officer in the film.

In a straightforward and engaging manner, let me rephrase: Nate’s journey isn’t clean-cut or predictable; there are no long-winded speeches about life lessons or higher purpose. The Angel Studios production leans more towards practical matters, rather than delving deeply into the spiritual realm.

This screenplay subtly hints at Nate’s troubled past, choosing strategic moments for the complete unveiling. Although it might appear manipulative initially, it proves to be impactful on-screen. We’re eager for more insights into Stan’s background as well, and his relationship with his fellow teacher could benefit from further exploration.

In the movie, Nate inquires from Stan about his seemingly unending resource of assistance. This query is something that persists throughout the film, and occasionally, it seems warranting a more profound examination.

It could be our skeptical side speaking up. At times, genuinely kind individuals simply are kind. The story of Stan and Nate serves as a perfect illustration, and the movie that portrays their relationship truly does justice to its essence.

HiT or Miss: “Brave the Dark” offers an absorbing look at a young man on the brink of disaster.

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2025-01-23 21:03