Darkman is a 1990 American superhero film directed and co-written by Sam Raimi, featuring Liam Neeson as Dr. Peyton Westlake. The story follows Westlake, a scientist on the brink of a breakthrough in synthetic skin technology, whose life takes a dark turn when he is brutally attacked by gangsters led by Robert Durant, played by Larry Drake. Left for dead and severely disfigured, Westlake undergoes an experimental treatment that grants him superhuman abilities but also drives him to madness.
As Darkman, he seeks revenge against those who destroyed his life while grappling with his new identity and his love for attorney Julie Hastings, portrayed by Frances McDormand. The film blends action, horror, and tragedy with a dark sense of humor, showcasing Raimi's unique visual style through techniques like stop-motion animation and blue-screen effects.
Upon its release, Darkman received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. It was praised for its innovative approach to the superhero genre at a time when such films were less common. While some critiques focused on its visual effects and campy elements, the film has since gained a cult following.
The success of Darkman led to two direct-to-video sequels—Darkman II: The Return of Durant and Darkman III: Die Darkman Die—though neither featured Neeson or Raimi. Today, Darkman is regarded as a significant entry in the evolution of superhero films in Hollywood, influencing subsequent adaptations with its unique blend of tragedy and action-packed storytelling.