
Written by: Celita Diaz-Perillo (01/24/2025)
Brave the Dark is a historical drama with immense heart and significance.
Based on a true story, it bounces back between the late 80’s and the early childhood of one of the main characters, Nathan. Nathan and Mr. Stan Deen, one of Nathan’s high school teachers, are the main characters of the film.
To me, the title, Brave the Dark, is symbolic of perseverance, forgiveness, grace, and new beginnings. It is having the courage to be brave in hard times and seasons of life. It’s about family, relationships, and not being swallowed up by all of the big thoughts and feelings that assault us as we are in critical growing-up years, but it also applies to the challenges of adulthood ruts.
There is drama and joy. There is a measure of laughter and there are feel good moments. There is sorrow, grief, and a very weighty need for healing in the characters. But it is also about triumph, patience, hope, and love.
While there are few clear references to religion, there are crucifixes in some scenes. There is little to no reference of God, prayer, etc… So I would not categorize this film as a “Christian” film, but that does not detract from the beauty of the film itself.
Nathan’s mother is present only in mirage-like visions/memories. Unfortunately, some of the trauma present in Nathan’s childhood home is due to mental health, lack of support, physical and verbal and mental abuse, and violence in the home. Adoption and fostering successes and failures are mentioned. There is no mincing words that the system is flawed. Delinquency and truancy are also represented.
There are many elements in the movie which would caution me to just recommend this film to anyone and everyone, no matter the age such as scenes where substance abuse is present. We also hear a smattering of curse words or substitutes. While the film contains limited kissing or sexual reference, there are some scenes where Nathan is in the shower or shirtless in bed, and at one point he also undresses down to his underwear. We are made to acknowledge the curse of misused words. Again, there is mental, verbal, and physical abuse, violence and trauma. At a couple points, there are suicidal considerations, and an attempt.
All of this is part of a REMARKABLE STORY, but the redeeming power of love, affirmation, acceptance, support, community, and wise counsel and direction is what stands out even more!!!
There are some serious themes to be confronted, and as such, I believe that it is wise to caution parents, guardians, teachers, etc, to evaluate carefully if it is a film your young people are prepared to encounter. There is MUCH possibility for discussion. And it could be used as a teaching and encouraging tool, when done with wisdom and discernment. I would not recommend this for children under 15, unless in the presence of adults who can create a safe place of sharing and heart talk. Mainly because of the emotional and psychological situations with the main character, Nathan.
All in all, my daughter and I were quite moved while watching this movie. Let us know what you think about it, if you do watch it!
Hang in there, reader… “This too shall pass!” (Mr. Stan Deen)
3.65/5
Released: 01/24/25 (Theatrically)
Running Time: 112 Minutes (Inspiring Films, Make Films, Angel Studios)
Rated PG-13 for domestic violence/bloody images, suicide, some strong language, teen drinking, drug material and smoking.
Links for Brave The Dark:
Celita, I really appreciate your thoughtful review of Brave the Dark. You did a great job highlighting the depth and complexity of the film. I completely agree with your cautions about the mature themes—there’s definitely a lot to process, especially for younger viewers.
That said, I was pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed the movie. While we had some concerns going in, after watching the preview, it ended up being much more impactful and meaningful than we expected. The story of hope, love, and redemption really shines through despite the darker themes.
Thanks again for your great review, and we look forward to hearing more of your insights on future films!