Boarding School

Jacob Rathbone, a 12-year-old boy, struggles with an intense fear of darkness that plagues his nightly existence. This fear manifests in profound night terrors, adding strain to his relationship with his mother, Isabel, who feels overwhelmed and frustrated by Jacob's condition.

An incident occurs at home when Jacob is discovered dancing in his late grandmother's dress, prompting ridicule at school. This embarrassing moment escalates into bullying from his peers, leading to Jacob's suspension.

As a result of his troubles, Jacob is sent to a remote boarding school run by the eccentric Dr. Sherman and Mrs. Sherman. The school is located in a wilderness setting, designed to help troubled kids but is far from a nurturing environment.

At the boarding school, Jacob meets a diverse group of classmates, including twins Lenny and Calvin and various outcasts like Phil, Frederic, and Elwood. Each student has unique challenges, and the strict school environment often exacerbates their difficulties.

Tensions rise at the school when Frederic is discovered dead, apparent victim of suicide by hanging. His death sends shockwaves through the group, particularly impacting Jacob as he learns more about the dark goings-on within the school.

Taking advantage of the chaos, Christine attempts to escape with Jacob. However, their plan is thwarted, leading to Christine's revelation of a dark past that includes her involvement in Frederic's demise.

In a chilling encounter, Christine confesses to Jacob that she had previously murdered her brother, Timothy, and that she coerced Frederic into dangerous situations that led to his death. This shocking admission heightens the tension and danger surrounding Jacob.

Jacob's horror escalates when he finds Elwood dead in his bed, further unraveling the chilling reality at the school. This discovery leads Jacob to confront the impending threats posed by the Shermans.

A dramatic argument reveals Mrs. Sherman's true identity as Lynn Adams, and she and Dr. Sherman begin plotting devastating actions against the children at the school. Jacob learns about their twisted plans to eliminate the students.

In a horrifying discovery, Jacob uncovers the remains of the real Dr. and Mrs. Sherman hidden in the freezer, along with Frederic's body. This ghastly find confirms the extent of the evil that has enveloped the seemingly innocent school.

As the situation spirals out of control, Ms. Adams murders Mrs. Ramsay, intensifying the stakes for Jacob and the other children. The violent act underscores the urgency of escaping the school's horrific environment.

In retaliation for Mrs. Ramsay's death, Dr. Sherman kills the groundskeeper, revealing his sinister history with contract killings that dates back to Jacob's age. His chilling confession heightens the danger facing Jacob and the rest of the children.

In a desperate struggle for survival, Jacob confronts Dr. Sherman, ultimately managing to kill him in a fight. With newfound bravery, he ignites a fire in a bid to destroy the malevolent force haunting the school.

Jacob successfully rescues the other children from the burning building but leaves Christine behind in pursuit of justice for Frederic's death. This act signifies Jacob's growth and strength as he embraces his true identity.

In the final turn of events, Jacob learns that his stepfather Davis was behind sending him to the boarding school as a way to rid himself and Isabel of Jacob. This betrayal culminates in Davis's demise through poisoned wine, symbolizing Jacob's transformation into a warrior against darkness.