Review of The Darkest Minds (2018) by Dufreshest — 11 Aug 2018

I must say, I like The Darkest Minds. There’s definitely potential for character growths in sequels. There are a few developmental concepts that are shown which I shall discuss further on. Initially, I’m watching the movie thinking to myself: is this a wannabe X-Men/sequel to Logan? Yet, I find The Darkest Minds really comes to approach difficult generational hypotheticals and topics set under conditions that make the film’s intentions effective as well as the overall film more interesting.

The first developmental concept I want to discuss is the use of the term ‘us’ in the film. The film is set in a childless world with a suffering economy. ‘Us’ becomes a generational word in phrases indicating a separation as well as a unity between differences and alikeness on the basis of generational circumstances. Highlighting Generation Z in relation to Millennials, Generation X, Baby Boomers, and the Silent Generation raises interesting stances concerning developments of the modern world. Connections between each generation really affects the outcome of the story.

The second developmental concept branching from the first examines the requirements of society. People will have to work regardless of their generation in order to create sustainable-thriving societies. The film situates ‘us’ in manners which denote ways for generations, in particular Generation Z, to thrive relying on each individual in their own generation (long-term with the assistance of the capable, honest, and willing from prior generations?) and their natural surroundings due to the misappropriations of societal necessities by larger entities of earlier generations. Life and the skills one has in their life are core to the value systems in the film. What is even wilder is that particulars of earlier generations are using individuals with certain skill sets from newer generations and pitting them against each other for their own purposes.

The third developmental concept concerns the use of technologies. The film focuses on the skills each individual is capable of utilizing effectively, their natural-super abilities, and only touches base with other forms of tech to connect with divisive behaviors from earlier generations. Keep in mind, the film is highlighting large entities, figures that may greatly affect scapes of societies, and is not indicting entire generations under an umbrella of same though highlights types of behaviors, circumstances, and mindsets that cause generational mayhem and unease as well as the opposites of all the aforementioned which may cause peace and ease.

The fourth developmental concept I want to discuss concerns war. Aren’t we able to transform all of the worlds war materials into extremely large extra-curricular training facilities? People have to stop wanting to use each other for ill and have to stop wanting ill for other people. Amidst so much grand nature and a world of so many extra-curricular activities, I don’t understand the purpose of constantly warring. Misery should not be anyone’s choice equilibrium.

The Darkest Minds looks good and flows well. The sound editing is one of its strongest areas and really boosts the cinematography. The acting is really decent though I think the film may really do well with more character development overall. Societies have come a long way. Plagues have been real detrimental factors shaping communities for generations. Germs and disease are an important area of discussion which is not given any more attention than is necessary to propel the story at moments though very important to discuss especially in accordance with developing medical technologies.

The story is touching — not gripping — but, at the end of the film, I find myself slightly upset — though understanding — upset — slightly. I’m not going to spoil the ending for you. The film sets a lot of emphasis on memories and relationships between people as a catalyst for the story which I think is a strong point of the story that may have a lot more impact with more details.

I think every film serves a purpose; some films are really good pieces overall, some films are meant to incite one to think of the film’s presentations, some films are distractions, and — well — some films do more than the descriptions or reputations their genres might seem to entail — especially for a viewer. It’s like how I feel about Teeth: I low-key want to own that film on DVD. The Darkest Minds brings to light interesting topics to converse about due to the settings which the topics exist in. I think the film is worth watching and, if there is one, I will be finding my way to watch a sequel.

Overall Rating: B/B+.

— K.D.

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