Philip Da Silva’s From Darkness was one of two Swedish horror films to screen at this year’s Pigeon Shrine FrightFest. Whereas Ludvig Gür’s In the Name of God explored religion and the power of faith, From Darkness was an intimate supernatural horror set in the woods. Filmed primarily at night in the cold temperatures of Sweden, the icy location of From Darkness seeps through the frame and leaves the viewer feeling chilly too.
Park ranger Angelica (Rakel Benér) seeks the help of her former dog-handler boyfriend, Viktor (Oscar Skagerberg), to search for a missing woman in a dangerous Swedish nature reserve, complicated by a disturbing myth about the Cave Banshee, a vengeful spirit from Nordic folklore that once lured miners to their deaths in the treacherous caves. As they delve deeper into the forest, Viktor starts to question his own sanity and whether the rumoured Banshee is more than just a myth. To make matters worse, Angelica and Viktor share a painful history with the haunted place, one they must confront to unravel the reserve’s many mysteries.
Our review spoke highly of From Darkness’ atmosphere and the dynamic between the characters of Angelica and Viktor. The film received its UK premiere at FrightFest and several members of the cast and crew were in attendance to support it. Of them, director Philip Da Silva and leading lady, Rakel Benér, walked the FrightFest media wall and agreed to answer THN’s questions about the project. Our talks delved into filming in sub-zero temperatures, balancing the drama against the supernatural, and what being a part of FrightFest’s 25th anniversary means to them.
From Darkness screened at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest. From Darkness has yet to announce a release or further screenings, but as soon as THN gets an update we’ll keep you posted.
