“Orion and the Dark” is an animated fantasy adventure film based on Emma Yarlett’s children’s book of the same name. Directed by Sean Charmatz in his feature directorial debut, with a script by Charlie Kaufman, the movie tells the story of Orion (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), a typical elementary school boy gripped by anxiety, particularly a fear of the dark.
One night, Orion encounters the Dark (Paul Walter Hauser) in physical form. The Dark offers to show Orion the benefits of darkness to help him overcome his fears. However, Orion’s anxieties inadvertently drive a wedge between them, causing the Dark to vanish and Light (Ike Barinholtz) to take over.
As Orion accompanies the Dark on his nightly tasks, he meets other entities like Sleep, Insomnia, Quiet, Unexpected Noises, and Sweet Dreams. Despite forming a bond with the Dark, Orion’s fears continue to disrupt their work.
Ultimately, Orion’s admission that he prefers Light leads the other entities to abandon the night, leaving the Dark feeling abandoned. Feeling guilty, Orion realizes his mistake and, with the help of his daughter Hypatia and Sweet Dreams, rescues the Dark from a perilous situation.
The film concludes with Orion overcoming his fears, Hypatia being returned to her time, and the revelation that Hypatia’s mother is Sally, Orion’s school crush. Through its story of self-discovery, empathy, and acceptance, “Orion and the Dark” explores the importance of overcoming anxieties and appreciating life’s small joys.