the film started shooting on may 2, 2011 and had its u.s. premiere at the filipino arts and cinema (facine) international film festival in san francisco on october 20, 2012. at this festival, the film won a special award for valuable contribution. "darkest night" received a limited u.s. theatrical release on july 1, 2013 and full video release on july 16. largely good reviews greeted the film from critics, its festival audience and general audiences alike. the film seeks to build bridges between asian and american cultures, producing horror with a blend of both.