‘Night Always Comes’ Review: Vanessa Kirby Gets Put Through the Wringer in Netflix’s Grim Neo-Noir Odyssey - The Hollywood Reporter
Night Always Comes: A Haunting Exploration of Trauma and Survival
Netflix's latest psychological thriller, Night Always Comes, is a gripping drama that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Set over the course of a single harrowing night, this film is driven by a mesmerizing performance from Vanessa Kirby, whose portrayal is bristling with raw nervous energy, hunger, and searing inner conflict.
The Story
The movie follows an unnamed young woman (Vanessa Kirby), who finds herself trapped in a desperate bid for survival after a traumatic event. With no clear memory of her past or the events leading up to this moment, she must rely on her instincts and resourcefulness to navigate the treacherous landscape of her own mind.
As the night wears on, our protagonist is forced to confront the darkest aspects of herself and the world around her. Her fragile grip on reality begins to slip, threatening to consume her entirely. The film's non-linear narrative adds to the sense of disorientation and confusion, mirroring the main character's growing desperation.
Kirby's Performance
Vanessa Kirby is, without a doubt, the driving force behind this movie's intense emotional impact. Her performance is raw, visceral, and deeply unsettling, drawing the audience into the world of her protagonist with an unflinching gaze.
Kirby brings a level of authenticity to her portrayal that is both captivating and unnerving. She conveys the complexity and depth of her character through subtle facial expressions, body language, and tone, creating a sense of intimate connection between the actress and the audience.
Themes and Symbolism
At its core, Night Always Comes explores themes of trauma, survival, and the fragility of human mental health. The film delves into the complex psychological dynamics that underlie our protagonist's experiences, raising questions about the nature of memory, identity, and reality.
Throughout the movie, a range of symbols and metaphors are woven throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the story. From the abstract imagery of the night sky to the haunting soundscape, each element serves to heighten the sense of tension and unease that permeates every aspect of this film.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Agnieszka Smoczyńska's handling of the narrative is marked by a keen attention to detail and a masterful use of pacing. The film's slow-burning tension builds steadily, creating an atmosphere of creeping dread that draws the viewer inexorably into the world of the protagonist.
The cinematography is equally impressive, with a muted color palette that adds to the overall sense of unease and disorientation. The camerawork is fluid and expressive, capturing the frenetic energy of our protagonist's inner turmoil with remarkable precision.
Conclusion
Night Always Comes is a visceral, unflinching exploration of trauma, survival, and the human psyche. With Vanessa Kirby delivering a breathtaking performance at its center, this Netflix thriller is an unforgettable experience that will leave viewers on edge until the very end.
As the credits roll, the question remains: what lies beyond the veil of our protagonist's sanity? Will she find a way to escape the prison of her own mind, or will the darkness consume her completely? The answer, much like the truth about her past, remains shrouded in mystery – leaving Night Always Comes to haunt your thoughts long after the screen fades to black.