Staring at the Dark 1988
Jack Perez's *Staring at the Dark (1988)* is a moody, atmospheric drama that blends crime and introspection into a short but memorable thesis film.
Director: Jack Perez
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Staring at the Dark (1988) about?
*Staring at the Dark* follows a man whose quiet life of observing the night is upended when Melora Walters' character enters his world, bringing tension and emotion to their brief but impactful encounter. The film weaves a crime-tinged narrative around themes of isolation and fate, all within a tight 27-minute runtime.
Who directed Staring at the Dark?
The film was directed by Jack Perez as his NYU thesis project, marking the beginning of his career in filmmaking.
Who stars in Staring at the Dark?
The cast features Paul Mulder as the lead, joined by Melora Walters, Jessica Dublin, and Demian Lichtenstein in pivotal roles.
Is Staring at the Dark (1988) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb and brief in length, *Staring at the Dark* offers a compelling snapshot of early Jack Perez's style, with strong performances and an atmospheric tone. Fans of indie crime dramas or short films with emotional depth may find it rewarding.
How long is Staring at the Dark?
The film has a runtime of 27 minutes.
About Staring at the Dark (1988) — Jack Perez's atmospheric thesis drama in black-and-white
Jack Perez's *Staring at the Dark (1988)* is a moody, atmospheric drama that blends crime and introspection into a short but memorable thesis film. The story follows a solitary man whose routine of silently observing the night is disrupted when a compelling woman enters his life, sparking unexpected tension and emotion. Shot in 27 minutes of stark black-and-white, the film leans into themes of isolation, chance encounters, and the quiet unraveling of ordinary lives. With its deliberate pacing and understated performances, *Staring at the Dark* captures the eerie beauty of mundane moments turned extraordinary.
The chemistry between Paul Mulder and Melora Walters grounds the narrative, while Demian Lichtenstein and Jessica Dublin add layers of intrigue to the compact crime-drama. Jack Perez's directorial debut hints at the visual flair and narrative depth he would later refine, crafting a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.