Crossword Genius

Film-maker Shyamalan wants opening of movie to be darkness (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

night

'to be darkness' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for night that I've seen before include "'The 2 8 of the dog in the _____'" , "period of gloom" , "Thing (anag)" , "''Twas the ... before Christmas, when all through the house / Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse''" , "late" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.