The Dark Horse (2014)

A different way of telling a story

It was OK. I don't see why everyone loves it so much. It wasn't very smart or deep or well-directed.

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

It's simply great fun, a winsome film and an occasionally over-the-top luxury fantasy that never flags.

In New Zealand, Genesis Potini (Cliff Curtis) is a former chess player struggling with mental issues. In a rundown gang-infested neighborhood, he teaches the local kids chess and starts a team called The Eastern Knights.It's a nice performance from Cliff. Obviously, he's a great actor and his good work is not surprising. It's based on a real person. It's a compelling character although the plot isn't much. It needs more from at least one of the kids to hook in the audience. The tournament drama suffers without the kids' background. It needs more from the other actors. Overall, this is a fine character study by an exceptional actor.

It is considered as one of the best Kiwi films ever. Inspired by a real person with the severe bipolar disorder. The story centres on the character Genesis Potini, a chess prodigy. Despite his mental issue, he forms a chess club called the Eastern Knights where the underprivileged kids are trained. The film follows his own struggle, as well as his fight for other Maori descent youngsters not to fall prey for the wrong paths. In that perspective, it was very well told tale.It is not another 'Once Were Warriors', but it had its moments. Especially the Maori people with their struggle between the good life and bad life was boldly revealed. Honestly, I did not enjoy much, but won't deny it is a nice film with a good message. I'm happy that I picked it, except I'm not the audience for it. Because the large portion of the film remained dull due to the 2 hour long stretch. I would have been very happy if it was around a 90 minute narration.So the actors were the plus point. Some of them had no prior experience, but did well and was recognised widely. Whatever it is, Cliff Curtis is the man of the film. He won a couple of International awards for the role he played. Like I said the first half was boring, but once the chess theme come into play, the scenario changes and lots of good things happens. I feel it is an inspiring film at a different level. Worth a watch, but it is not a very cheerful screenplay. So I don't think everybody would end up happy, despite a very interesting theme.6/10

Spectacular. What can I say. I saw this film yesterday and I am still emotionally changed by it. Cliff Curtis' portrayal of the main character Genesis is incredible. Every facial movement, gaze and words contain such intent and delivery that it makes you imagine or see what is going on in his mind. The opening scene is stunning directing and DOP work and creates the mood for the entire film.James Rolleston as Mana is excellent. Very powerful delivery and believable. Same can be said for Wayne Hapi who plays Mana's father Ariki. Kirk Torrance as Noble and the rest of the cast is great.I also felt a close connection to this film because I grew up in a small town in Australia with people similar to the roles portrayed in this film so I can relate.Great work, I will see again very soon and can't wait to own it when it is released.

I'm a huge fan of Cliff Curtis which is the main reason I wanted to see this movie. Once again, as Genesis Potini, his portrayal of a real human being who shows love, conflict and courage in facing adversity, reveals the heart of this extraordinary man. Wayne Hapi as his brother Ariki, is an amazingly charismatic 'unknown' actor whose performance matches C.C's as a tough but tragic Father/brother/survivor trying to do his best for his son. Everyone involved in this movie has got to feel proud of their involvement in enlightening people to feel empathy towards this misunderstood world of gangs, psychosis and modern families. Amazingly, this often sad, bleak movie showed genuine hope and joy in being alive.