The Dark Horse

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source: The Dark Horse

I have seen a few of the NZ films over my time. Once Were Warriors, Boy, Whale Rider, however The Dark Horse to me is the stand out film of New Zealand Cinema thus far. Congratulations to the actors, writers, camera crew. The subjects that are touched on in this film include Mental Illness, Depression, Poverty, Team Work, Leadership, Community Strength, Power of Community engagement in the lives of youth. The acting was so natural it pulls you into the story so well. Usually I turn to the chips or popcorn when I get bored in films but I just left my food alone throughout the whole movie. In fact I was more inclined to sneak a tissue or two to stop my eyes sweating(while my wife was not looking). The facial expressions of Cliff Curtis in key scenes speak a thousand words. Hope, Fear, Confusion etc. Now that is great acting!!! He probably wont get an Oscar for this but he is worthy of one. The story is greatly balanced without it getting too much into the dark or light. I found "Once Were Warriors" too dark and "Boy" too light on subject matter. The Dark Horse balances the drama well; you will laugh and you will cry. In this materialistic and fast paced world this film will touch your soul and probably make you think about your impact on the community and how we are quick to judge those caught in poverty and who suffer from mental illness. STaNDING OVATION IN MY LIVING ROOM (Clap, clap, clap, clap, clap) Thank you for making beautiful cinema, thank you Genesis for your positive impact in your community.

One of New Zealand's BEST actors, and one of the world's most talented. Cliff is totally convincing in any role, and I believe he is terribly under-appreciated. Hollywood needs to wake up and start looking around away from their little private club, and to realise that there are staggeringly talented actors out there who deserve top roles. Cliff Curtis has made me hate him and love him in his many guises, and is a true talent without the hype. What a superb portrayal of a character in this moving, yet heart-warming film. I knew nothing of this story and now I realise how much I missed, so Cliff has honoured the telling in a full and complete way. What a brilliant job.