Rent The Dark Horse (2014)
3.9 of 5 from 126 ratings
1h 50min
- General info
- Available formats
- Synopsis:
- A New Zealand classic,'The Dark Horse' tells the true story of Genesis Potini (Cliff Curtis) plagued by mental illness and a difficult relationship with his brother; who overcomes his personal demons to inspire local disadvantaged youths with his infectious love of chess. Setting up the Easter Knights chess club, he provides hope for a group of children who have none; in turn finding his own purpose in life.
- Actors:
- Cliff Curtis, James Rolleston, Kirk Torrance, Miriama McDowell, James Napier Robertson, Barry Te Hira, Xavier Horan, Wayne Hapi, Lyel Timu, Te Ahorangi Retimana-Martin, Calae Hignett-Morgan, Te Rua Rehu-Martin, Niwa Whatuira, Lionel Wellington, Wesley Broadfoot, Tuhoe Isaac, Sia Trokenheim, Andrew Grainger, Shaden Te Huna, Dante Nathuran
- Directors:
- James Napier Robertson
- Producers:
- Tom Hern
- Writers:
- James Napier Robertson
- Studio:
- Koch Media
- Genres:
- Drama
- Countries:
- New Zealand
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Reviews (3) of The Dark Horse
Disturbing - The Dark Horse review by JD
This is a profoundly moving film about a schizophrenic outcast who comes from a very violent family. His motivation and solace is chess. This is a low budget film about a very poor New Zealand community some of whom are very violent. Not easy to watch. The main character "dark horse" is extremely engaging and emotionally involving. The tale is generally of triumph over adversity and you will not be too depressed for watching it. Advertised as a classic, I would agree.
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
A Maori drama-who would have thought - The Dark Horse review by FH
An interesting look at a community and its problems. The story had a certain predictability but excellent all the same and it makes chess look interesting.
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.
recommended - Very moving and uplifting, though a difficult watch in places - The Dark Horse review by CP Customer
I got this one out based on the trailer which focuses on some kids from a very deprived area finding self-respect through learning and competing in chess - and billed it to my family as a feel-good movie.
Well, I got a bit more than I bargained for, with some very violent scenes, and some vicious attitudes, as you delve into the depths of human dysfunction in an area dominated by drugs and gangs .
However, it was an extremely powerful film, with a positive ending and some very moving performances.
Highly recommend it.
2 out of 2 members found this review helpful.