Cast
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Crew
Director
- D.J. Webster
Producer
- Keith Walley
- D.J. Webster
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Action/Thriller/Science Fiction film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Dark Side of the Moon presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director D.J. Webster brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1990, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Dark Side of the Moon took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Dark Side of the Moon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Miz Cracker's Favorite Haunts, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Dark Side of the Moon offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Star Wars and PLANT explore similar territory, The Dark Side of the Moon stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 30, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 31m
- Budget: $1,200,000
Where to Watch
