Watch The Colour of Darkness

The Colour of Darkness is an independent Australian film that explores the themes of identity, race, and cultural displacement. The film tells the story of young boy Asif (played by Sahil Saluja) who moves to Australia with his family to escape the violence of his home country, Pakistan. Asif experiences culture shock as he struggles to fit into his new surroundings, dealing with bullying and discrimination from his new classmates.

Asif's world is turned upside down when he discovers an abandoned cricket bat in a park. He uses the bat to play cricket and reveals a natural talent for the sport. He joins a local cricket team and becomes the star player, but when he is selected to represent the state, his future is threatened by the bigotry of adults who are uncomfortable with his presence on the team.

The themes of racism and discrimination are explored through the relationship between Asif and his friend, Grace (played by Vidya Makan). While Asif struggles with his identity and sense of belonging in Australia, Grace also grapples with her own identity as a mixed-race child of Indian and Australian parents. The two become close friends, learning from each other and supporting each other through their struggles.

The Colour of Darkness also explores the generational divide between first-generation immigrants and their children. Asif's father, Ali (played by Sanjeet Pahil), is determined to uphold the traditions and values of his home country, while Asif's mother, Rukhsar (played by Kumud Merani), is more willing to assimilate into Australian culture. Asif's journey to find his place in the world is further complicated by the tension between his parents' differing perspectives.

The film's cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and isolation of the Australian landscape. The cricket scenes are particularly impressive, showcasing the sport's skill and athleticism. The use of slow-motion shots and close-ups of the cricket bat add a sense of tension and drama to the matches.

While The Colour of Darkness deals with heavy themes, it is ultimately a story of hope and resilience. Asif's love for cricket gives him a sense of purpose and belonging, allowing him to push through the challenges of acclimating to a new culture. The film ends on a hopeful note, as Asif stands proud on the cricket field, having found a place where he can shine.

Overall, The Colour of Darkness is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of identity and displacement. The talented cast, stunning cinematography, and powerful themes make it a must-see for anyone interested in independent cinema.

The Colour of Darkness is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.