Watch Into the Dark

Into the Dark is a captivating independent thriller from 2014 directed by Mark Edwin Robinson. It stars Lukas Hassel as Pete, Lee Tergesen as Sam, and Laura Fay Lewis as Liz, who explore their deepest fears while being trapped in an elevator. The movie begins with Pete, an aging writer, who is struggling with suicidal thoughts. He locks himself in an elevator in his high-rise apartment with the intention of taking his life. However, things take a turn when the elevator stops, trapping him inside. Sam, a petty criminal who is running from the police, also hops on the same elevator to hide. Moments later, Liz, a young woman, also joins them, trying to visit her mother on the 12th floor.

As the doors close and the elevator starts moving, the three strangers realize that it is malfunctioning. The elevator gets stuck between floors, leaving them hanging unceremoniously by a wire. The trio soon becomes aware that they are not alone in that claustrophobic space. Paranoia starts to take hold, and they suspect each other, wondering who could be responsible for their current predicament.

All three characters have their own issues, and as they slowly open up to each other, their motivations start to unravel. Pete, wrestling with his own demons, offers a perspective on life that is both aloof and wise. Sam, tough and streetwise, romanticizes about his criminal lifestyle and believes honesty is an outdated concept. Liz, who is pregnant, is focused on her future and the hope for it, once she can get out of the elevator.

As the hours tick by and the temperature rises, the three strangers become more distressed and desperate to get out. Their initial mistrust of one another quickly turns into resentment when things take an unexpected turn. The suspense builds up as the characters' behavior becomes more erratic, and the tension between them reaches a boiling point.

The movie's cinematography is minimalistic, shot entirely in the confines of the elevator for its entire duration. The director uses this limitation to his advantage, building tension around the cramped space and the limited view. The characters' psychological and emotional states are explored thoroughly through the sharp dialogue, subtle emotional beats, and power dynamics in the small space.

The actors give convincing performances, with Lukas Hassel showcasing his range as the vulnerable yet enigmatic writer. His performance is nuanced and multi-layered, delivering insightful monologues that reveal the depths of his pain. Lee Tergesen's portrayal of Sam is gritty and authentic, portraying the character's insecurities that come through despite his brutish exterior. Laura Fay Lewis stands out as Liz, whose character arc goes through the most significant changes throughout the movie, portraying it perfectly.

The music score heightens the anxiety and foreboding atmosphere in the film, amplifying the unease and distress of the characters' situation. The simple yet effective soundtrack complements the uneasy dynamics between the trio.

In conclusion, Into the Dark is a gripping and intense psychological thriller with rich characterization and masterful performances. The movie explores the human condition at its most vulnerable, as three strangers are trapped in an elevator and forced to confront their fears and inner demons. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking themes and breathtaking performances.

Into the Dark is a 2019 science fiction movie with a runtime of 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.9.