Despite the fact that it's only a TV movie, Don't be Afraid of the Dark is a creepy little film that takes it's modest plot and does really well with it. The themes in the film aren't very original, and it's always clear that the movie was made for TV as elements such as the acting performances and locations used aren't exactly the best, but the film succeeds in spite of this and actually works to much better effect than many big budget yet similar films. The plot is intriguing from the beginning, and revolves around a blocked up fire place in a house that a couple have just moved into. Naturally, being a woman; the wife decides that she wants to use that fire place, and proceeds to open it up despite the advice of the friendly repair man. It turns out that this fire place harbours tiny demons, and now no one will believe that she is actually seeing them! Director John Newland does well at implementing a creepy atmosphere, and there's also a lot of tension as the origin of the demons takes centre stage. The fact that it's never properly explained exactly where they came from is a shame, however, but the ending wraps everything up nicely and manages to create some intrigue on its own. Small niggles such as the fact that lead actress Kim Darby looks too young aside, in general this film is well worth seeing and definitely comes recommended!
Review of Don't Be Afraid of the Dark
