Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/brave-the-dark (US), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/brave-the-dark (Canada)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10381102/
About movie: https://www.angel.com/movies/brave-the-dark
Here is the detailed information you requested about the movie "Brave the Dark" (2023):
Movie (summary):
"Brave the Dark" (2023) is a drama film directed by Damian Harris, based on the true story of Stan Deen, a high school drama teacher who dedicates himself to helping a troubled student named Nathaniel. The film explores themes of mentorship, perseverance, and the impact one person can have on another's life, while also addressing personal challenges faced by the teacher.
Plot Summary:
The film follows the story of Stan Deen, a dedicated and kind-hearted high school drama teacher who goes above and beyond to support a troubled student, Nathaniel. Despite facing his own personal challenges, Mr. Deen sees potential in Nathaniel and invests his time, talent, and resources to help him navigate his difficulties. The movie depicts the turning point in young Nate's life due to Mr. Deen's unwavering support and guidance.
Director's Vision:
Damian Harris stated his hope for "Brave the Dark" is to inspire viewers to be a "Stan Deen" for someone in need, encouraging them to take risks and make a long-term personal investment in others. He emphasized Stan Deen's unique ability to make everyone feel valued and to draw out their potential even when they couldn't see it themselves. Harris aimed to honor Deen's generosity and inspire others to emulate his selfless commitment to helping others.
Themes:
Based on the available information, the main themes of "Brave the Dark" appear to be:
Mentorship: The central theme revolves around the powerful impact a dedicated mentor can have on a student's life.
Perseverance: The film highlights the importance of not giving up on individuals facing challenges, both for the mentor and the student.
Redemption: The story seems to involve a troubled student finding a path towards a better future through the guidance of his teacher.
The Impact of Teachers: The film underscores the significant role teachers play in the lives of young people, often going beyond academics to provide crucial support and guidance.
Hope and Inspiration: The true story aims to inspire viewers about the potential for positive change and the power of human connection.
Key Success Factors:
Jared Harris' Performance: Critics have consistently praised Jared Harris for his dignified and strong performance in the role of Stan Deen, which is considered a highlight of the film.
Heartfelt and Inspirational True Story: The fact that the film is based on a true story with a powerful message of hope and redemption is a significant factor in its appeal.
Focus on the Importance of Human Connection: The film resonates with viewers by emphasizing the value of kindness, support, and making a personal investment in others.
Summary Short:
A dedicated high school drama teacher, Stan Deen, based on a true story, goes the extra mile to support a troubled student, Nathaniel, while facing his own personal challenges, demonstrating the power of mentorship and perseverance.
Awards and Nominations:
"Brave the Dark" won the Audience Choice Award at the 2023 Heartland International Film Festival.
Critics Reception:
Critics' reception to "Brave the Dark" has been mixed to generally positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 72% positive rating based on 39 reviews, with the consensus stating: "Grounded by Jared Harris' dignified performance, Brave the Dark tells an inspirational true story with familiar beats but commendable integrity." Metacritic assigned the film a score of 56 out of 100 based on 5 critics, indicating "mixed or average" reviews. Some critics noted uneven pacing and inartful delivery from supporting characters, but overall, the film is seen as delivering an engaging narrative with excellent performances and an important message.
Reviews:
Screen Rant: Praised Jared Harris' shining performance and the film's heartfelt message, stating that it prioritizes its message over flaws.
Wikipedia Summary of Reviews: Notes that some critics found the film to be approaching the realm of classics like "Good Will Hunting," while others pointed out uneven pacing and delivery issues but acknowledged the engaging narrative and excellent performances.
IMDb User Reviews: Highlight the film as a wholesome, heartwarming, and redemptive story that tugs at the heart, emphasizing the importance of teachers and the power of nurturing love in the lives of children and teens.
Box Office:
"Brave the Dark" has grossed $4,525,443 in the US and Canada, with an opening weekend gross of $2,288,135. Its worldwide gross is $4,529,925.
Production:
"Brave the Dark" is a production by Inspiring Films and Make Films, highlighting a true story set in the 1970s and focusing on the relationship between a teacher and a student.
Production Companies:
Inspiring Films
Make Films
Sales Companies:
Information regarding specific sales companies for "Brave the Dark" (2023) is limited.
Distribution Companies:
Angel Studios (USA) distributed the film theatrically in the United States in 2025.
360 WayUp (Brazil) handled theatrical distribution in Brazil in 2025.
Crystalsky Multimedia (Philippines) handled theatrical distribution in the Philippines in 2025.
Paris Filmes (Brazil) also handled theatrical distribution in Brazil in 2025.
Release Date on Streaming:
Information regarding the streaming release date for "Brave the Dark" (2023) is not widely available at this time.
Theatrical Release:
"Brave the Dark" was theatrically released in the United States on October 6, 2023, and had its opening weekend on January 26, 2025. It also had theatrical releases in Brazil and the Philippines in 2025.
Why to recommend this movie:
Inspirational True Story: The film is based on a genuine and moving story about the impact of a dedicated teacher on a troubled student's life, offering a message of hope and redemption.
Strong Lead Performance by Jared Harris: Jared Harris delivers a compelling and praised performance as Stan Deen, which is a significant highlight of the film.
Heartwarming and Uplifting Narrative: Despite touching on difficult themes, the film ultimately offers a heartwarming and uplifting experience that emphasizes the power of human connection and mentorship.
Why to Watch Movie:
Appeals to Audiences Who Enjoy Inspirational Stories: Viewers who appreciate films about overcoming adversity and the positive influence of mentorship will likely find this movie engaging.
Highlights the Importance of Educators: The film serves as a tribute to the crucial role teachers play in shaping young lives and providing support beyond the classroom.
Offers a Look at a Meaningful Human Relationship: The bond between Stan Deen and Nathaniel is at the heart of the story, providing an emotional core that resonates with audiences.
What Movie Trend film is following:
Inspirational Biopics/True Story Adaptations: "Brave the Dark" fits into the trend of films based on true stories that aim to inspire and uplift audiences by showcasing real-life heroes and their positive impact on others.
Films Focused on the Importance of Teachers/Mentors: There is an ongoing trend in cinema highlighting the profound influence that educators and mentors can have on young people's lives, often exploring themes of guidance, support, and personal growth.
What Big Social Trend is following
Recognition of the Importance of Mentorship and Support Systems: The film reflects a broader social awareness of the crucial role mentorship and strong support systems play in helping individuals, especially youth, overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Appreciation for Educators and Their Impact: In a society that often overlooks the contributions of teachers, "Brave the Dark" aligns with a trend of acknowledging and celebrating the vital role educators play in shaping future generations.
Final Verdict:
"Brave the Dark" is a heartfelt and inspirational film that effectively conveys the powerful true story of a teacher's dedication to a troubled student. Anchored by a strong performance from Jared Harris, the movie delivers a commendable message about the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and the positive impact one person can have on another. While some critics noted minor flaws, the film's sincerity and uplifting narrative make it a worthwhile watch, particularly for those who appreciate stories of hope and human connection.
Recommendations for Film Makers:
Focus on Authentic Emotional Connection: The heart of "Brave the Dark" lies in the relationship between the teacher and the student. Filmmakers should prioritize developing genuine emotional connections between characters to resonate with the audience.
Highlight the Extraordinary in Ordinary Individuals: The film showcases the impact of an ordinary teacher who went above and beyond. Filmmakers can find compelling stories in highlighting the everyday heroes who make a difference in their communities.
Balance Familiar Tropes with Sincere Storytelling: While the inspirational true story genre may have familiar beats, sincerity and strong performances can elevate the narrative and deliver a meaningful message.
Recommendations for Movie Industry:
Continue to Support Uplifting and Hopeful Stories: In a world often filled with negativity, films that offer hope and inspiration can be valuable and resonate strongly with audiences.
Recognize and Promote Films that Highlight the Positive Impact of Educators: The industry can play a role in celebrating the importance of teachers and mentors by supporting and promoting films that showcase their positive influence on society.
Ensure Distribution for Meaningful Independent Films: "Brave the Dark" is an independent film with a strong message. The industry should strive to provide distribution opportunities for such films to reach wider audiences.
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