Fear of the Dark

  • 2003
  • PG-13
  • 86m
movieMx RATING
5.2/1059
VERDICT
AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Fear of the Dark Review

Last updated: February 5, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: February 5, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Fear of the Dark (2003) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Fear of the Dark features a noteworthy lineup led by Kevin Zegers . Supported by the likes of Jesse James and Rachel Skarsten , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.

Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.

💡 Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?

In summary, our editorial assessment of Fear of the Dark (2003) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Result: AVERAGE
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, Fear of the Dark stands as a AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: Fear of the Dark

Quick Plot Summary: Fear of the Dark is a Horror film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.

Ending Explained: Fear of the Dark

Ending Breakdown: Fear of the Dark attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.

The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.

Ending Analysis:

  • Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
  • Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
  • Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Fear of the Dark reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Fear of the Dark?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Horror films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Top Cast: Fear of the Dark

All Cast & Crew →
Kevin Zegers
Kevin ZegersDale Billings
Jesse James
Jesse JamesRyan Billings
Rachel Skarsten
Rachel SkarstenHeather Fontaine
Linda Purl
Linda PurlSandy Bilings
Derrick Damon Reeve
Derrick Damon ReeveFigure Pulling Young Ryan
Derrick Damon Reeve
Derrick Damon ReeveCloaked Tall Figure #1
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Where to Watch Fear of the Dark Online?

Streaming Hub

🎟️ Rent on

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🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video

Fear of the Dark Parents Guide & Age Rating

2003 Advisory
PG-13

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Fear of the Dark age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Fear of the Dark is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Fear of the Dark is 86 minutes (1h 26m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.2/10, and global performance metrics, Fear of the Dark is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2003 cinematic calendar.

AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Fear of the Dark. Rating: 5.2/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fear of the Dark worth watching?

Fear of the Dark is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.2/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Fear of the Dark parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Fear of the Dark identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Fear of the Dark?

The total duration of Fear of the Dark is 86 minutes, which is approximately 1h 26m long.

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Critic Reviews for Fear of the Dark

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movieMx Verified

This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.

This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.2
Fear of the Dark
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