Coming Home in the Dark (2021)

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04/03/2025

Coming Home in the Dark (2021)

“Coming Home in the Dark” is a 2021 New Zealand psychological thriller directed by James Ashcroft and based on a short story by Owen Marshall. The film is a brutal, intense, and thought-provoking journey that explores themes of trauma, guilt, and the inescapability of the past. It stars Daniel Gillies, Erik Thomson, Miriama McDowell, and Matthias Luafutu.

Plot Overview

The story follows Alan “Hoaggie” Hoaganraad (Erik Thomson), a high school teacher, who embarks on a road trip with his wife, Jill (Miriama McDowell), and their two teenage sons. What begins as a peaceful family outing in the New Zealand countryside quickly turns into a nightmare when they encounter two mysterious drifters, Mandrake (Daniel Gillies) and his silent yet menacing accomplice, Tubs (Matthias Luafutu).

The two strangers take the family hostage at gunpoint, forcing them into a terrifying and unpredictable situation. As the night progresses, it becomes clear that Mandrake has a personal vendetta against Hoaggie, stemming from his past involvement in a brutal boarding school system that mistreated and abused children. Mandrake, having been one of those children, sees this as an opportunity for long-awaited revenge.

Throughout the film, tension escalates as Mandrake plays psychological games with Hoaggie, revealing dark truths about his past and forcing him to confront his complicity in past atrocities. The film blurs the lines between victim and perpetrator, making the audience question whether Hoaggie deserves his fate.

Themes and Atmosphere

“Coming Home in the Dark” is not a typical home invasion thriller but rather a deeply unsettling psychological horror about past sins catching up to the present. The film tackles issues of moral responsibility, the lingering effects of institutional abuse, and the idea that evil is not always random—it sometimes comes for those who have ignored it for too long.

The cinematography beautifully contrasts the stunning landscapes of New Zealand with the film’s grim and relentless tension. Daniel Gillies delivers a chilling performance as Mandrake, whose calm and articulate demeanor makes him even more terrifying. The film’s use of silence and minimalistic dialogue adds to the unease, making each moment unpredictable.

Conclusion

“Coming Home in the Dark” is a gripping and unsettling thriller that lingers long after the credits roll. It is not just about survival but about the consequences of one’s past actions. With its disturbing themes, intense performances, and relentless suspense, the film is a haunting experience that challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of guilt and justice.