Watch The Dark Side of the Sun

The Dark Side of the Sun is a 1988 drama film starring Brad Pitt, Guy Boyd, and Cheryl Pollak. This emotionally-packed adventure follows a young American named Rick (Pitt) who suffers from a rare disease that makes him dangerously sensitive to sunlight. As he travels to a Yugoslavian clinic in hopes of finding a cure, he finds himself drawn to a local girl named Marisa (Pollak), who becomes his guide as he explores the exotic locale.

Directed by Bozidar Nikolic and written by Menno Meyjes, The Dark Side of the Sun presents a unique and striking story. At its core, this film is a coming-of-age tale that explores themes of love, mortality, and the search for identity. While Pitt's character Rick is the central focus of the story, the supporting cast is equally impressive. Boyd plays Rick's father, a man struggling to understand his son's condition and cope with the potential loss of his child. Pollak, in turn, is radiant as Marisa, who is both enamored with Rick and deeply wounded by her own struggles. Together, these three actors create a powerful dynamic that drives the plot forward.

The film's setting is also breathtaking. Shot on location in Yugoslavia, The Dark Side of the Sun takes viewers through a variety of stunning landscapes. From the bustling city streets of Belgrade to the lush forests of the countryside, the film captures the beauty and complexity of this unique region. Beyond its physical beauty, Yugoslavia also serves as an important thematic backdrop for the story. As Rick explores this foreign land, he confronts his own feelings of isolation and dislocation, ultimately coming to a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world.

The Dark Side of the Sun is also notable for its stunning visuals. Cinematographer Vilko Filac creates a gorgeously lit world, contrasting the bright, overpowering sunlight that Rick must avoid with the rich, warm colors of the indoor scenes. The film's score, composed by Patrick O'Hearn, is equally memorable, bringing a haunting, dreamlike quality to the proceedings.

Despite its many strengths, The Dark Side of the Sun is not without its flaws. The plot can be somewhat disjointed at times, with certain elements feeling underdeveloped or rushed. Additionally, some of the secondary characters are not as fully fleshed out as they could be, leaving the viewer wanting more. However, these shortcomings are more than compensated for by the film's overwhelming emotional impact. The relationships between Rick, his father, and Marisa are so beautifully portrayed that they draw the viewer in and never let go.

Overall, The Dark Side of the Sun is a compelling drama that offers a powerful exploration of the human condition. With stunning visuals, a moving score, and a talented cast, it is a must-see for fans of coming-of-age stories, romantic drama, and cinematic artistry. While it may not be perfect, the film's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, creating a deeply affecting viewing experience that is not to be missed.