Hold the Dark

In December 2004, writer Russell Core, an expert in wolf behavior, travels to the remote village of Keelut, Alaska. He is summoned by Medora Slone, who seeks his aid in dealing with the wolves allegedly responsible for the tragic disappearances of children, including her own son, Bailey.

Upon his arrival, Core stays at the Slone residence, engaging in detailed conversations with Medora about her missing son. During these discussions, Medora mentions the existence of hot springs north of their town, piquing Core's curiosity about the area and its significance.

One night, Core is awakened by Medora whispering and bathing while wearing a dark wooden wolf mask. After she removes the mask, the encounter turns intimate and forceful, revealing the complexities of Medora's character and escalating the tension between them.

Meanwhile, Medora's husband Vernon serves in Iraq, where he witnesses an American soldier assaulting a local woman. This traumatic event compels Vernon to intervene violently, illustrating his brutal nature and the psychological scars he bears from war.

The next morning, Core ventures into the wilderness to track the wolves. During his journey, he meets an elderly native woman named Illanaq, who cryptically warns him that he is heading in the wrong direction and hints that Medora knows evil.

As Core continues his search, he stumbles upon the hot springs and witnesses a pack of wolves feeding on their offspring. Tormented by this sight, he chooses not to interfere but returns to find that Medora has mysteriously vanished, leaving the cellar door open.

Down in the unlocked cellar, Core uncovers the frozen body of Bailey, leading him to call for immediate assistance. This chilling discovery prompts an investigation by local police, who are shocked by the grim revelation.

While the police investigate the scene, native villagers reveal their beliefs that Medora is possessed by a malevolent wolf-demon referred to as a tournaq. This introduces an element of supernatural folklore that surrounds the tragedy and Medora's actions.

Vernon reunites with his old friend Cheeon at the airport, both grieving their lost children. They soon join forces with Donald Marium, the police chief, to uncover the truth behind the tragic events unfolding in their community.

In a fit of rage, Vernon shoots police officers after being provoked, causing chaos and confusion. This violent act marks a pivotal moment, showcasing Vernon's complete descent into madness and desperation over the loss of Bailey.

After the confrontation, Vernon and Cheeon conduct a ritualistic burial for Bailey, marking the grave with their own blood. This act symbolizes their deep grief and the lengths to which they will go to honor their lost children.

Struggling with his psychological demons, Vernon encounters an old hunter named John. This meeting leads to a brutal confrontation, ultimately resulting in Vernon killing John while donning a wolf mask, underscoring his transformation.

Core and Marium deduce that Medora may have sacrificed Bailey to protect him from a looming darkness. They set their sights on the hot springs, believing that this may lead them to understanding Medora's actions and state of mind.

At the hot springs, Core confronts Vernon, who is now fully immersed in his wolf persona. In a chaotic exchange, Marium is shot by Vernon, demonstrating the dire consequences of the madness that has enveloped them.

As Core loses consciousness from a gunshot wound, Medora dislodges Vernon's mask, revealing a fleeting connection between them. Upon awakening in a hospital with his daughter Amy by his side, the grim reality unfolds outside with Vernon digging up Bailey's grave.