The Darkest Minds (2018) is a classic teen dystopian film. Adapted from the first book in the series of the same name by Alexandra Bracken the plot follows a group of teenagers with supernatural abilities who form a resistance against the government. The government considers children to be a dangerous threat to civilisation and separates them from their families.
A powerful opening captures the audience from the get go. A deadly virus is killing children, those who survive have developed supernatural abilities. Ruby portrayed by Amandla Stenberg is one of the survivors. The day after her tenth birthday she is taken away from her family to a concentration camp run by the government. Six years later, Ruby is discovered as one of the rare ones, who possesses the ability to read minds. After escaping near death Ruby breaks free and joins three other rebellious teenagers Liam (Harris Dickinson), Chubs (Skylan Brooks), and Zu (Miya Cech).
The Darkest Minds explores themes of equality and government propaganda, which characterises how powerful and in-depth the storyline of the film is. There is tension throughout the movie with the notion of a war brewing between the supernatural teenagers and the government, which leaves room for a sequel.
Amandla, Harris, Skylan, and Miya, along with their supporting cast portray a strong performance. Amandla’s performance as Ruby is skilled displaying a vulnerable character who wishes to return home to her family, allowing the audience to empathise with her.
The Darkest Minds is definitely the new hit dystopian on the block for teenagers. Parents prepare to get your kids the books and become familiar with the new teenage heart throb British actor, Harris Dickinson. The film is out in cinemas now.
Readers also enjoyed this review about Mamma Mia.
