Darkman (1990) is a superhero film directed by Sam Raimi and starring Liam Neeson as the titular character, Peyton Westlake. The film follows Peyton, a brilliant scientist working on synthetic skin at a research lab. After his work is stolen by a ruthless crime boss, Louis Strack Jr., Peyton is attacked by Strackβs men, disfigured, and left for dead. However, Peyton miraculously survives and is left with severe facial scars. Using his knowledge of science, he creates a synthetic skin that allows him to temporarily assume different identities, though the skin deteriorates after 99 minutes.
Peyton takes on the identity of Darkman, a vigilante who seeks revenge on the people who wronged him. He uses his new ability to impersonate others and infiltrate the criminal underworld, all while struggling with his increasing isolation and the deterioration of his synthetic skin. Darkmanβs physical and emotional transformations mirror his journey as he grapples with his quest for vengeance and his lost humanity.
As Peyton continues his mission to bring down Strack and his criminal empire, he also tries to reconnect with his former fiancΓ©e, Julie Hastings (played by Frances McDormand). Julie, unaware of Peytonβs survival, is unknowingly caught in the crossfire of his dangerous pursuit of justice. Meanwhile, Peyton’s growing instability and the deterioration of his synthetic skin put both his mission and his relationship with Julie at risk.
The film reaches its climax as Darkman confronts Strack and his henchmen in a series of intense action sequences. In the end, Peyton avenges the wrongs done to him, but he is left physically and emotionally scarred, realizing that he can never fully return to the life he once had. Darkman is known for its blend of horror, action, and superhero elements, as well as its exploration of identity, revenge, and the psychological toll of becoming a vigilante.