‘Night Call’ Review: Brutal Belgian Survive-the-Night Thriller Hits Hardest With Cutting Social Commentary

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In his first directorial venture, Michiel Blanchart, a Belgian filmmaker, infuses an ordinary action movie structure with thoughtful social critique in the film “Night Call.” The protagonist, Mady (played by Jonathan Feltre), is a young locksmith who experiences a chaotic and violent night in Brussels. He encounters dangerous individuals, forges heartfelt connections, and races against time to save himself. Through his skillful storytelling, Blanchart demonstrates an ability to give depth to each character, causing the audience’s sympathies to shift and transforming the film into something more than your typical hard-hitting action movie.

Mady receives an unexpected visit from Claire, a charming yet enigmatic lady, who asks him to enter her apartment due to misplaced keys. After she playfully flirts with him, he lets his guard down and gets tricked, finding himself in someone else’s home with a stolen plastic bag full of cash. The apartment owner is a dangerous gangster, and Mady quickly becomes their target. The primary pursuers are the formidable Yannick and his loyal associate Theo, both part of this criminal organization.

The goal here was to maintain the original meaning while making it easier to read and understand for an average audience.

Mady, a clever and resourceful young fellow, successfully convinces his opponents of his innocence using his intelligence. His skills as a locksmith prove useful on multiple occasions, helping him fend off the villains – temporarily, at least. However, it doesn’t take long for people to start losing their lives, and the cat-and-mouse game between Mady and the antagonist becomes increasingly intense with potentially lethal outcomes. This entire sequence of events unfolds during a single night in Brussels, where widespread protests against police brutality, particularly the killing of a young Black man, are taking place on a massive scale.

Initially, the protests are subtly woven into the movie’s backdrop, more like ambient noise than a crucial plot element. Over time, they evolve into the main storyline, lending “Night Call” a significant social relevance. Mady doesn’t participate until it’s convenient for him, viewing the crowd as a means to hide. However, as he becomes more immersed in the events, the similarities between what’s unfolding on screen and the city’s real-life situation become strikingly clear.

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but acknowledge Blanchart’s exceptional talent in crafting thrilling action films that resonate deeply with social issues. Just like a river flowing seamlessly from one bend to another, “Night Call” effortlessly transitions from one suspenseful sequence to the next. In his own words, Blanchart draws inspiration from iconic American thrillers such as “Collateral” and “Training Day.” Yet, instead of merely replicating these genre classics, he artfully pays tribute by incorporating elements, like a chase scene within a bustling nightclub reminiscent of “Collateral.” His work is far from being a mere imitation; rather, it showcases a keen eye for detail and an abundance of creativity. Moreover, Sylvestre Vannoorenberghe’s cinematography skillfully maintains the tension while subtly capturing the intricacies of each performance.

In a menacing demeanor, Duris plays an ominous antagonist. Bloquet, much like Matthias Schoenaerts in “Rust and Bone,” brings macho empathy to his role. However, it’s Feltre’s captivating central act that holds the film together. His eyes are wide with fear, his face filled with apprehension – this raw survival instinct guides the movie through its intricate turns. He convincingly portrays a criminal, yet also authentically hums Petula Clark’s soft “La Nuit N’en Finit Plus” while working.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but recommend “Night Call” for those seeking an action-packed adventure that doesn’t disappoint. Yet, what truly sets this film apart is its introduction to a visionary writer and director who breathes fresh life into the genre by weaving in contemporary themes. This broader scope transforms “Night Call” from just a harrowing journey of one man into a reflection of our times. By tackling real-life issues, it distinguishes itself from run-of-the-mill action films, offering food for thought along with the thrills.

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2025-01-18 06:46