Super Dark Times (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set in Upstate New York, a region known for its quiet towns and picturesque landscapes. The setting contrasts the peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere of suburban teen life with the darker events that unfold, emphasizing how violence can shatter innocence even in seemingly idyllic environments.

• upstate new york
• setting
• location
• suburbs

The film is set in 1996, during the mid-1990s. This pre-millennial period reflects a time of transition for adolescents, blending lingering innocence with emerging societal tensions. The era adds nostalgic weight while highlighting how teenagers grappled with new risks and hidden dangers.

• 1996
• 1990s
• time period
• era
• 90s

Violence is the central theme, emerging through a tragic accident among teenage friends. The struggle over a samurai sword escalates into a fatal confrontation, symbolizing the loss of innocence and the irreversible impact of decisions made in moments of panic. The haunting consequences linger throughout the narrative.

• violence
• loss of innocence
• consequences
• samurai sword

Guilt drives much of the narrative as both Zach and Josh grapple with the repercussions of their actions. The accidental death of their friend Daryl weighs heavily on them, shaping their mental states and influencing their decisions. This persistent theme shows how unresolved guilt can haunt individuals and damage relationships.

• guilt
• psychological impact
• mental health
• consequences

Secrets serve as a crucial catalyst, forcing the characters to conceal the truth about Daryl's death. The act of burying both a body and a traumatic experience reflects the struggle of youth to manage overwhelming emotions and consequences. These secrets ultimately unravel friendships and expose darker aspects of human nature.

• secrets
• hiding truth
• cover up
• consequences

Zach is portrayed as a sensitive and introspective teenager whose life spirals after a traumatic accident. He battles intense guilt and nightmares while trying to navigate his friendships and moral compass. Zach embodies the fragility of innocence amidst brutality, serving as the emotional core of the story.

• zach
• main character
• protagonist
• Owen Campbell

Josh represents the more impulsive and reckless side of teenage friendship. His actions have dire consequences for himself and others. His transformation from a carefree boy to a tormented individual reflects the profound impact of violence and the weight of hidden secrets on young minds.

• josh
• character
• Charlie Tahan
• impulsive

Allison embodies the complexities of teenage emotions and serves as a focal point of attraction for both Zach and Josh. Initially a symbol of innocence, her character becomes deeply affected by the surrounding violence. She represents resilience and the struggle to reclaim one's life after devastating events.

• allison
• character
• Elizabeth Cappuccino
• love interest

Daryl is portrayed as the misunderstood figure who instigates tension among the boys. His complex emotional journey during adolescence flips between friend and foe. Despite his unlikable traits, Daryl's tragic fate serves as a chilling reminder of the unforeseen consequences arising from youthful recklessness.

• daryl
• character
• Max Talisman
• antagonist

The 1996 Upstate New York setting creates a backdrop of nostalgic calm that contrasts sharply with the film's dark events. This contrast highlights the theme of innocence colliding with chaos, emphasizing how violence can erupt unexpectedly in peaceful, suburban environments.

• upstate new york
• 1990s setting
• suburbs
• nostalgia

The movie explores how loyalty and friendship are tested under extreme circumstances. Zach and Josh must fight to protect their lives and their friendship while grappling with guilt and paranoia. Their bond is forever altered as they confront the consequences of their actions, redefining their understanding of loyalty and responsibility.

• friendship
• loyalty
• trust
• betrayal
• responsibility

The film delivers a dark meditation on the fragile nature of innocence and the permanent impact of choices made in youth. It explores how guilt, secrets, and violence can irrevocably change relationships and individual identities. The sad, heavy ending, with one friend arrested and others scarred, cements the message about the brutal consequences of youthful recklessness.

• meaning
• message
• theme
• interpretation
• ending