My Dark Academia Films/Shows

 I didn't realize how big of a trend Dark Academia was and is when I first delved into it. I for some reason thought it was the niche thing and that writing a book using the aesthetic might give it an edge or something. But no it's huge and everywhere lately and I for one am not complaining. Give me all the books, movies, and shows with it. It's fantastic and I only hope that when I finally pen my book it can embody all the things I love about it.

Dark Academia is an aesthetic that revolves around classic literature, the pursuit of self-discovery, and a general passion for knowledge and learning. It is one of several variations, each with its unique historical focus. Dark Academia visually stems from European cultures, as with its most well-known variations. 

(stole this from a Wikipedia page)

Hope that helps explain it. I don't know if the things I associate with it are going to line up with other people's ideas, but I'll try to give my reasons for why I think my choices fit the aesthetic. A lot of the suggestions on the Wikipedia page, I don't think fit very well. Except that they involve a school or something along those lines. 

The Queen's Gambit

This one I know counts because people have been tagging it as such. Also, it fits pretty much all the trademarks for it. 

It focuses on Beth Harmon and how she develops a knack for both chess and pills. It's an incredibly compelling narrative as you watch her rise in a field that is incredibly male-dominated. Not only does she beat some of the top players she earns a level of respect I don't think was granted to a lot of 1950/60's women. She comes from humble beginnings and at times is almost swallowed by it. 

I liked that she was flawed, incredibly feminine, and intelligent. It's hard watching someone relapse and suffer from addiction, but I thought it was portrayed well, and you get to see her eventually beat it. 

I just really loved it. The colors, time period, and fantastic clothes, and Anya Taylor Joy I felt like it was made for me. (Also strange fact, I had a prequel for Falling Snow planned that was called The Queen's Gambit)

 

(Not from the show, but I ship their characters. And I just love it.)

  Inkheart

This one is basically a love letter to books. I feel like nothing can be more "dark academia" than that. I adore both the trilogy and the movie. Is it a cinematic masterpiece? No, but it's one of those films that I put on when I'm feeling nostalgic and in need of a lift. Dustfinger was one of those characters that will stick with me forever. A lot of the people in it are characters from a book and are forced to come to terms with that. People are trapped in books, stolen out of them, obsessed with them. Basically, if you're a book lover, it's a must.

Sherlock Holmes 

There are very few movies that bring me as much joy as Guy Ritchie's take on Sherlock. The banter, the gothic setting, and the whip-cracking pace. I feel like Sherlock is the epitome of what any academic would aspire to be. The way he completely loses himself in his cases and obsessions. And jump ropes the line between crazy/ genius. It also features one of the best bromances that you can find and my favorite version of Irene Adler. One of the few that do her justice.   

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Mainly Giles)

I don't think Buffy really counts as dark academia. I actually don't know one would really categorize it. It bounces around quite a bit in terms of genre. Giles would be right at home in such a film though. He is a librarian/watcher who has a checkered past and a solid right hook. Loves a cup of tea and is uncompromisingly British. He also reads Latin and has an immense collection of occult books.

Can usually be found in the library wearing tweed. 

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell 

This book and incredible mini-series blew my mind when I first discovered it. It's so intricately layered and thought out. It showed faeries in a far more unpleasant and disturbing light. Which led me down a huge rabbit hole. (You have no idea) This fictional version of England is both parts amazing and dark. It's full of magic, book hoarding, and hidden libraries. 

What do you guys think of Dark Academia? What are some of your favorites?