SPOILER ALERT

“Darlin'” – A Gritty Tale of Survival and Institutional Corruption

Introduction to Darlin’

“Darlin’,” a sequel to the 2011 film “The Woman,” directed by Pollyanna McIntosh, unfolds the gripping tale of a feral teenager, Darlin’, portrayed by Lauryn Canny. Discovered in the woods and whisked away to a Catholic hospital, her journey from wilderness to a supposed civilized life begins. The film delves into the struggles of adapting to societal norms and the dark underbelly of institutional power.

Darlin’s Journey to Civilization

The film opens with a poignant scene where The Woman, who raised Darlin’, leads her to a hospital, only for Darlin’ to be struck by an ambulance. This incident lands her in the care of a Catholic boarding school, St. Philomena’s, signifying the start of her tumultuous journey. Here, Darlin’ faces the challenge of assimilating into a new life, grappling with the teachings of the school, especially those concerning the Devil. The story takes a darker turn with the introduction of the Bishop, played by Bryan Batt, who sees Darlin’ as a pawn in his scheme to rescue his parish from financial ruin.

The Dark Side of the Institution

The Bishop’s plan to transform Darlin’ from a wild child into a poster girl for his fundraising efforts reveals the hypocrisy and corruption within the Church. Meanwhile, Darlin’s ally in the hospital, a nurse named Tony, faces discrimination due to his sexual orientation. As Darlin’ gradually regains her speech and starts adapting, the Bishop’s true, predatory nature comes to light, exposing the sinister aspects of his character.

Climactic Revelation and Conclusion

The climax of the film is both dramatic and unsettling. Darlin’ is revealed to be pregnant, a consequence of a grim encounter orchestrated by The Woman. This revelation plunges her into deeper conflict, exacerbated by the religious teachings of the school. In a twist of fate, The Woman, fiercely searching for Darlin’, embarks on a vengeful path, culminating in a bloody confrontation during a First Communion ceremony. The ceremony turns chaotic as Sister Jennifer reveals the Bishop’s heinous crimes, leading to his death at the hands of The Woman.

Epilogue: A New Beginning Amidst Chaos

The film concludes with the birth of Darlin’s child, aided by Tony, his boyfriend Robert, Sister Jennifer, and a student named Billy. In a heart-wrenching decision, Darlin’ entrusts her newborn to The Woman, symbolizing a fresh start yet tinged with the shadows of her past.

“Darlin'” as a Mirror to Society

“Darlin'” stands as a stark reflection of societal challenges, showcasing the struggle for survival against oppressive structures. It intertwines the themes of trauma, institutional corruption, and the quest for autonomy, leaving the audience with lingering thoughts on the complex nature of human resilience and the corrupting influence of power.