Dark

Dark, the debut feature film of up-and-coming Chicago-based indie filmmaker Darryl Bullock, became an official selection at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival, Chicago International Film Festival, Urbanworld Film Festival, and American Black Film Festival, and receives its first home video release from Cheeseburger Films. It tells the story of one Dark Freeman (Jason Bonner), a young African American man who finds himself torn between his tough urban roots - living as a resident on the impoverished, crime-ridden south side of Chicago - and his day-to-day life, in the comparatively wealthy and privileged University of Chicago, where he is enrolled as a student. Walking between the two worlds, Freeman must find a way to succeed in both, with the help of lovers, family members, close friends and acquaintances.

Directed by D.A. Bullock, Dark leans on a strong ensemble — Jason H. Bonner, Elizabeth Isibue, Elijah Long — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2003.