The story, set in 1980s rural Pennsylvania, is based on true events and explores the transformative relationship between a compassionate high school teacher and a troubled teenager.

Stan Deen, a dedicated English and drama teacher in New Holland, Pennsylvania, discovers that one of his students, Nate, has been living out of his car and has been arrested.

The film emphasizes the importance of confronting one’s past to build a better future and showcases the enduring impact a dedicated mentor can have on a young person’s life.

[4] Brave the Dark was written by Dale G. Bradley, Lynn Robertson, John P. Spencer, director Damian Harris and Nathaniel "Nate" Deen.

The website's consensus reads: "Grounded by Jared Harris' dignified performance, Brave the Dark tells an inspirational true story with familiar beats but commendable integrity.

But this deliberateness works very much to the film’s advantage, as it allows Harris and Hamilton sufficient time to illuminate all the diverse facets of their characters, and generate an arresting chemistry that is sometimes humorous, sometimes acrimonious and always credible.

"Brave the Dark appears to be approaching the realm of classic films like Good Will Hunting, though this independent effort does not manage to soar quite as high," he wrote.