Dark Tourist

Jim Tahna leads a monotonous life, working as a soft-spoken security guard. His job provides him with solitude, giving him brief moments of peace but also fueling his contempt for societal norms.

Engaging in dark tourism, Jim becomes fascinated with the infamous Carl Marznap, a mass murderer and arsonist. This obsession drives him to visit locations tied to Marznap's horrific crimes as he seeks to understand the darkness that surrounds his legacy.

Jim leaves the familiar streets of Yonkers and travels to California, drawn by the malevolence associated with Marznap. This journey marks the beginning of his deeper exploration into the darkness within.

Upon arriving in California, Jim meets Iris, a prostitute residing in the same run-down motel. Their initial interaction reveals Jim's discomfort and contempt for her lifestyle, highlighting his internal struggles.

Jim has a serendipitous encounter with Betsy, a friendly waitress at a local diner. Crafting a false story about his sister's illness, he draws Betsy into his web, establishing a bond through shared hardships.

As Jim’s connection with Betsy deepens, she invites him to attend an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. This invitation signifies a potential turning point in Jim's life, offering him a chance for redemption.

After immersing himself in Marznap's twisted narrative, Jim begins experiencing intense hallucinations. The ghost of Marznap urges him to show the world the depth of victimization, revealing Jim's internal turmoil.

Following the AA meeting, Betsy invites Jim to her home for dinner, nurturing their budding relationship. However, the evening becomes tumultuous when she attempts a kiss, causing Jim to react in anger and confusion.

Compelled by his haunting feelings, Jim seeks out Iris, leading to an uncomfortable encounter that triggers flashbacks to his traumatic childhood. This event brings forth buried emotions that consume him.

In a fit of rage, Jim brutally attacks Iris after chasing away her client. This moment marks a critical point of violence, revealing Jim's internal demons and his struggles with anger and trauma.

Feeling irrevocably broken, Jim confides in Marznap about his shattered psyche. This candid sharing underscores Jim's vulnerabilities as he spirals further into despair and isolation.

When Betsy tries to reach out to Jim, he harshly rebuffs her, leaving her in tears. This interaction emphasizes Jim's destructive tendencies and his inability to maintain meaningful connections.

In a violent climax, Jim chokes Iris in a local church after dragging her there. This shocking act illustrates the culmination of his rage and internal conflict, leading to devastating actions.

Following his violent outbursts, Jim finds himself drawn to self-destruction as Marznap seduces him with dark thoughts. Ultimately, Jim acts on this impulse by slashing his own throat, sealing his tragic fate.

After Jim's demise, law enforcement uncovers a string of crimes, revealing that his dark tourism has led to six victims, each connected to the underbelly of sex work. A young visitor discovers a chilling message in Jim's abandoned dwelling, hauntingly encapsulating his legacy.