Dark Dungeons (film)
A short film adaptation of the Chick tract Dark Dungeons.
The 2014 American short film Dark Dungeons, directed by L. Gabriel Gonda and penned by JR Ralls, adapts the Chick tract of the same name. It debuted at GenCon on August 14, 2014, and became available for video-on-demand via its official website.
Quick Facts
- Director
- L. Gabriel Gonda
- Producer
- JR Ralls; Ben Rapson
- Screenplay
- JR Ralls
- Based on
- Dark Dungeons Chick tract, Jack T. Chick
- Starring
- Alyssa Kay
- Anastasia Higham
- Tracy Hyland
- Music
- Randy Torres
- Cinematography
- Sam Graydon
- Editing
- Ben Dobyns; L. Gabriel Gonda
Facts from the source article.
Synopsis
The film begins with robed figures discussing how they promote darkness through tarot cards, homosexuality, and role-playing games, needing a few more converts for the Dark One to take over. Debbie and her childhood friend Marcie look forward to their new school. At freshman orientation they meet Mike, who warns them against the RPG club, which the college cannot remove due to its popularity. The girls attend a party where the leader introduces an RPG. Marcie eagerly joins as Black Leaf, a thief, while Debbie plays Elfstar, a cleric. During the game they kill a begging character, disturbing Debbie briefly. Debbie later says she felt real magic casting spells. Both girls neglect school for the RPG group; Debbie begins failing classes and is told she must pass a test or move home. After reaching level eight, Mistress Frost inducts Debbie into witchcraft, and Debbie passes her classes by mind-controlling her professor. Marcie asks for a more extreme game to level up faster, and Mistress Frost introduces LARPing, warning that breaking character means permanent banishment.
Production
Writer J. R. Ralls first considered filming an adaptation of Dark Dungeons while in college, but the plans did not materialize. After winning $1,000 in a 2013 lottery, Ralls again pursued the project and obtained permission from Jack T. Chick. Additional funding came from a successful Kickstarter campaign, which brought the film to the attention of Zombie Orpheus Entertainment.
Reception
Critical reception for Dark Dungeons has been positive, with many critics viewing it as a satire of its source material. Wired noted that the film was not made as an outright parody, which they felt strengthened it because the original was created by people who believe Cthulhu is real. Comic Bastards similarly stated that everyone plays it competently and straight, and that is why it works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who stars in Dark Dungeons (film)?
Dark Dungeons stars Alyssa Kay, Anastasia Higham and Tracy Hyland.
Who composed the music for Dark Dungeons (film)?
The music for Dark Dungeons was composed by Randy Torres.
How long is Dark Dungeons (film)?
Dark Dungeons has a running time of 40 minutes.
More in American Horror Short Films
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced