Bravery takes a remarkably vivid and personal transformation in Netflix’s newly-released animated treasure, ‘Orion and the Dark.’ Charlie Kauffman, the creative genius behind cinematic marvels like ‘Being John Malkovich’ and ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,’ weaves his narrative expertise into a surprisingly heartwarming bedtime tale. This film not only offers a fresh adventure for young viewers but also takes their parents on a stroll down memory lane with echoes of their own childhood.
The film is a cinematic translation of Emma Yarlett’s beloved children’s book. It begins with Orion, a relatable character voiced by the young talent, Jacob Tremblay, who bravely introduces himself to the audience. Precocious 11-year-old Orion has a knack for chronicling his fears, distinctly outlining his phobias in a journal that we are privy to. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Kauffman’s writing paired with Sean Charmatz’s sensitive direction promises more depth than merely a list of boyish fears.
Orion’s greatest adversary is the dark—a presence he confronts with a simple plea for solitude. Yet, the dark, given form and voice by Paul Walter Hauser, emerges not as a foe, but as a misunderstood entity shrouded in mystery and a large cloak. Dark’s casual approach is unexpectedly disarming, and he implores Orion to join him to understand that his role in the world goes beyond casting terrifying shadows.
Compelling and charming comrades adorn their nocturnal odyssey. Sleep, voiced by Natasia Demetriou; Quiet, brought to life by Aparna Nancherla; and Sweet Dreams, imbued with Angela Bassett’s richness, are revealed as benevolent architects of our slumber. Nevertheless, even within this tranquil realm, characters such as Insomnia, by Nat Faxon, and Unexplained Noises, played by Golda Rosheuvel, fulfill their purpose.
The movie’s resemblance to the likes of ‘Inside Out’ may seem apparent—the depiction of elusive concepts in humanized forms is a narrative thread shared between them. However, ‘Orion and the Dark’ blazes its own trail, depicting a mutual journey of discovery where both the young boy and his nocturnal companion seek to vanquish their deep-seated insecurities. Orion’s everyday battles like school bullies and the nerve-wracking task of conversing with his classmate Sally mirror the Dark’s fears of being eclipsed by Light, voiced by Ike Barinholtz, and the dread of being forsaken by his nightly acquaintances.
Kauffman delicately interweaves these intricate emotions, opting for nuance and authenticity over the allure of simple, swift resolutions seen in other animations. The characters, especially Orion and the Dark, are crafted to deliver performances brimming with complexity and captivation. Bold narrative decisions manifest as the plot flits between the future and the past, where an adult Orion, retelling his tale to his daughter (voiced by Mia Akemi Brown), finds her eager to interject with her young imagination.
Although the storyline may, at times, bite off more than it can chew, ‘Orion and the Dark’ concludes with a finesse and tenderness that befit its intention. The thoughtful script, the commendably restrained direction, and the exemplary voice acting turn a fairly straightforward storyline into an endearing and snug viewing experience.
Netflix subscribers can now embark on this heartening journey alongside Orion and the Dark, as they delve into the night and face their fears.
As we share this report and encourage viewers to partake in this animated voyage, it’s worth reflecting on the film’s subtle implication—that perhaps, in confronting our fears, we may just find an unlikely ally in the darkness.
