“IN TENEBRAS: INTO THE DARKNESS” (2025) Is Where Treasure Hunting Meets Terror (REVIEW)
Sci-fi horror movies are like regular horror’s geekier, but equally deranged cousin—they add alien invasions, mad scientists, or dystopian futures into the mix just to up the stakes. Instead of a killer lurking in the woods, you’ve got existential dread hurtling through space or a mutated lab experiment gone rogue. The scares get smarter, messier, and way more chaotic because now it’s not just your life on the line—it’s all life as we know it. Plus, let’s be honest: nothing says nightmare fuel like realizing the monster is also a genius with a laser beam.
Recently the sci-fi horror geeks here at Macabre Daily got our excitement set from stun to kill with the newest addition to this unique genre with“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness”. This atmospheric adventure-horror movie takes audiences on a pulse-pounding subterranean journey that will keep them on the edge of their seats. It stars Michael Paré and Costas Mandylor and it explores themes of family loyalty, ancient curses, and military intervention with a healthy dose of treasure-hunting intrigue. It is directed by Martin Nuza, as it stands out as an ambitious entry in the genre, combining the tense claustrophobia of cave settings with supernatural horror.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” begins when siblings Hank (Anthony Loddo), Josh (Johan Wickholm), and Chelsie (Rebecca Davis) discover an old treasure map belonging to their late grandfather. This map leads them deep into Gibraltar’s labyrinthine World War II tunnels, sparking excitement for potential riches. However, what begins as an innocent exploration quickly takes a darker turn when the group stumbles upon an ancient artifact that triggers the release of a plague known as “Tenebras.”
As the plague begins to spread within the tunnels, the siblings find themselves caught in a deadly race against time. Meanwhile, the military sends a crack team led by Major Cummings (Costas Mandylor) and Captain Shaw (Michael Paré) to contain the infection and extract the siblings. Tensions run high as the soldiers and the family must navigate an increasingly dangerous environment, revealing hidden motives and old betrayals along the way.
The character interplay forms the heart of the movie. Hank, the charismatic and impulsive leader, is driven by a thirst for adventure. He is the sibling most enamored with the promise of glory, but his recklessness also makes him a liability. Josh, by contrast, is thoughtful and risk-averse, often at odds with Hank’s gung-ho attitude. Their sibling rivalry is palpable, providing both dramatic tension and moments of levity. Chelsie, the level-headed mediator, is more resourceful than either of her brothers, and her quick thinking becomes crucial as the situation spirals out of control.
On the military front, Major Cummings and Captain Shaw are intriguing characters with a shared past. Costas Mandylor plays Cummings as a hardened leader driven by a mission-first mentality. Mandylor’s performance is layered, hinting at internal conflict as the mission becomes more morally ambiguous. Michael Paré’s Captain Shaw is more introspective, clearly torn between orders and his conscience. Their shared scenes crackle with unspoken history, giving the movie emotional weight.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” has a setting that may be one of its greatest assets. Shot on location in Gibraltar, the movie uses the World War II tunnels to full effect, creating an atmosphere of oppressive claustrophobia. The narrow, dimly lit corridors heighten the tension, turning every shadow into a potential threat. Cinematographer Alejandro García masterfully captures the contrast between the sunny, open world above ground and the suffocating darkness below. This visual dichotomy mirrors the movie’s thematic descent—from lighthearted adventure to grim horror.
There’s a tactile realism to the sets that anchors the movie’s supernatural elements. The historical details of the tunnels feel authentic, making it easy to believe that ancient curses could be lurking in the shadows. As the infection spreads, the tunnels seem to close in, enhancing the movie’s tension and lending an almost mythic quality to the setting.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” is a story of curiosity versus consequence. The movie explores humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and the dangers of tampering with forces beyond comprehension. The siblings’ desire to unearth family secrets and achieve glory is tempered by the harsh reality of what they unleash. Themes of sacrifice and redemption also play a significant role, especially as certain characters face life-or-death decisions that will define their legacies.
Tonally, the movie is a careful balancing act. It starts with a sense of adventurous wonder reminiscent of classic treasure-hunting movies, but it doesn’t take long before the tone shifts into horror territory. The transition feels natural, aided by a slow escalation of tension and a gradual reveal of the plague’s supernatural elements. The blend of genres ensures there’s never a dull moment, with action, suspense, and moments of introspection keeping the audience engaged.
Anthony Loddo’s portrayal of Hank captures the essence of a reckless adventurer, bringing energy and charisma to the role. His performance is both charming and frustrating, as Hank’s impulsiveness drives much of the plot’s conflict. Johan Wickholm’s Josh is more subdued, but his quiet intensity lends gravitas to the family’s plight. Some moments of sibling conflict could have been explored with more nuance, but the actors share believable chemistry that sells their bond. Rebecca Davis shines as Chelsie, portraying a character who is equal parts vulnerable and determined. Her performance is understated yet powerful, especially in scenes where she must take charge in the face of danger. Davis imbues Chelsie with a quiet strength that makes her a standout in the ensemble.
Michael Paré and Costas Mandylor bring gravitas to their roles as the military commanders. Paré’s Captain Shaw is the movie’s moral compass, a soldier who begins to question the true nature of their mission. Mandylor’s Major Cummings, by contrast, is driven by duty and ambition, making him a fascinating character to watch. Their dynamic hints at a complicated past, adding layers of tension to their interactions.
Martin Nuza, who serves as the movie’s writer, director, and producer, clearly has a passion for the story he’s telling. His decision to use Gibraltar’s local talent and settings adds authenticity and cultural texture to the movie. Nuza’s direction is focused, with an eye for pacing that keeps the movie moving without sacrificing character development.
The production design is a highlight, particularly in the way the tunnels are brought to life. Every detail—from rusted military relics to crumbling walls—feels meticulously crafted. The plague’s visual manifestations are effectively eerie, thanks to a combination of practical effects and well-placed CGI. The movie’s score, featuring local musicians, enhances the atmosphere with a blend of suspenseful strings and haunting melodies simply by adding a harmonous tone to the foundation of the scenes they play in.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” has a pacing that is mostly effective, though the first half feels slightly stretched as the siblings explore the tunnels. Once the plague is unleashed and the military arrives, the story kicks into high gear, delivering one tense sequence after another. The transitions between exploration, action, and horror are mostly seamless, though a few scenes could have been tightened for maximum impact.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” is an ambitious adventure-horror movie that successfully blends treasure-hunting excitement with supernatural terror. Its strong performances, atmospheric setting, and thematic depth make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. While not without its pacing hiccups, the movie’s strengths far outweigh its flaws. With its intriguing characters and rich mythology, it leaves the door open for potential sequels—an exciting prospect for those who enjoy tales of darkness and discovery.
At its core, this movie is about the fine line between bravery and recklessness, and the price we pay for unearthing what should remain hidden. For those looking for a journey into the unknown, this movie is a descent well worth taking.
“In Tenebras: Into the Darkness” will be releasing on digital/VOD on February 17th. Stay tuned to Macabre Daily for more depth horror movie reviews to tingle your spines.
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