First-time Filmmaker Andrew Cumming Talks About the Challenges of Creating a Prehistoric Horror Film, ‘Out of Darkness’

“Out of Darkness”: A New Prehistoric Horror Film Making Waves in The Film Industry

Unveiling the Stone Age world:

“Never work with children or animals,” goes the old showbiz adage. First-time filmmaker Andrew Cumming technically abided by that wisdom… though “creature feature set in the Stone Age” might soon belong on the avoid-for-your-own-sanity list. “Out of Darkness” is the exciting directorial debut of Andrew Cumming, set 45,000 years ago and staged across the mystical Scottish Highlands.

A New World:

In “Out of Darkness,” six prehistoric humans wash ashore in a new world, in search of an evolved future. The script, written by Andrew Cumming, Ruth Greenberg, and Oliver Kassman, is a remarkable accomplishment in itself. Seemingly defying all tropes, the group’s immediate survival efforts are threatened by a lurking predator. However, it is a young woman named Beyah, played by the talented Safia Oakley-Green, who dares to confront this mysterious threat.

Overcoming Challenges:

Making “Out of Darkness” was no easy feat. Cumming faced a daunting task, creating a prehistoric horror movie that defies genre conventions. With no template to follow, Cumming merged influences from “Alien,” “The Hills Have Eyes,” and “The Witch,” bringing a fresh and unique vision to the silver screen. The film required extensive development over the years, and Cumming faced skepticism and raised eyebrows. However, his passion and belief in the project drove him forward.

A Journey of Perseverance:

In an exclusive interview with Cumming, he reveals the sheer passion behind “Out of Darkness.” Cumming and his team embarked on this project in September 2015, committing words to paper and writing a script in an entirely fictitious language called Tola. The director expressed initial concerns about the reception of the film, fearing it may be considered a “huge Scooby-Doo movie.” However, his excitement about the project prevailed and he recognized its potential to be a significant contribution to the horror genre.

The Guiding Question:

The underlying theme of “Out of Darkness” revolves around a profound question: “Have humans survived because of our own inhumanity?” Cumming explores this question by depicting a patriarchal society facing supernatural elements, emphasizing the cycle of fear and survival. Drawing inspiration from the iconic film “Alien,” Cumming’s goal was to showcase the transformation of Beyah from an oppressed individual to an apex predator, capturing themes of empowerment and resilience.

Casting a Remarkable Ensemble:

The casting process for “Out of Darkness” was crucial to its success. Cumming sought to form a core ensemble of actors that resembled each other, enhancing the believability of their shared ancestry. Each cast member brought a unique energy to the project, bouncing off each other in a harmonious collaboration. Safia Oakley-Green, in particular, stood out with her powerful performance as Beyah, captivating the audience with her physicality and raw talent.

Creating a Lived-in World:

The film’s authenticity extends beyond the dialogue; it resonates in the costume and makeup, conveying a sense of culture and intelligence. By drawing inspiration from Inuit fashion, which highlights resourcefulness and creativity with every aspect of an animal’s remains, the characters in “Out of Darkness” are made to feel more human and three-dimensional. Cumming’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that the characters avoid becoming mere replicas in a museum.

The Power of Language:

The unique language featured in “Out of Darkness” provided actors with the freedom to focus on the intention behind their lines rather than the words themselves. Cumming’s insight and sense of rhythm guided the actors, giving their performances a musical quality that heightened their delivery. The script, written in the invented language Tola, allowed the actors to find the right rhythm and injected authenticity into their performances.

The Landscape as a Character:

The misty landscapes of Scotland serve as a breathtaking backdrop in “Out of Darkness.” Although the production faced challenges in finding the perfect locations, the intense realities of the rugged Scottish terrain turned obstacles into opportunities for innovation. The team’s ability to adapt and reimagine scenes led to the creation of striking moments, with nature itself becoming a central character. The ever-changing weather added an extra layer of complexity and nuance to the performances and heightened the element of suspense throughout the film.

Inspiration and Influences:

During the interview, Cumming discussed his cinematic influences, crediting directors like David Fincher, Steven Soderbergh, John Ford, Alfred Hitchcock, and Roman Polanski. His passion for film and the ability of these directors to execute their visions with precision and planning have greatly influenced his own career. As a testament to his love for the anime classic “Akira,” an “Akira” poster adorns his office wall.

The Dawn of a Promising Future:

“Out of Darkness” marks the remarkable directorial debut of Andrew Cumming. With its unique blend of horror tropes, profound thematic exploration, and a talented ensemble cast, the film sets the stage for Cumming’s promising career. Defying genres and challenging conventions, Cumming’s vision and dedication have produced a truly distinctive and thought-provoking piece of cinema.