Drama. Romance. Temptation. Written and directed by Massy Tadjedin, Last Night tells the story of a married couple who seem to have a solid relationship but the wife, Johanna (Keira Knightley, Atonement), questions her husband, Michael (Sam Worthington, Avatar), when she sees a co-worker, Laura (Eva Mendes, The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call – New Orleans), flirting with him at a company party. The next night he goes away on a business trip with the co-worker, while she runs into an old boyfriend, Alex (Guillaume Canet, Tell No One).
It was very true-to-life and none of the actions seemed out of line with what the characters would do. All of the actors were encouraged to use their natural accents and it really gives the film a realism that draws you in. The lighting and the sound was also very natural, but polished. Filmed in New York, specifically, SoHo and the Meatpacking District, this movie really captured the city well by showing the cobblestone streets, older buildings and views from rooftops. I did spot one possible mistake. When Michael is going on his business trip, they are supposedly leaving Grand Central, but they are shown arriving in Grand Central (right by Eddie’s Shoe Repair). Then in the next scene they are checking in at a hotel in Philadelphia. I would really like a second look, otherwise this is a massive flaw in geography.
I didn’t quite understand the characters of Laura or Michael. I found Laura to be rather cold and distant. There were moments where you knew that you were supposed to feel sorry for her and see her vulnerability, but I didn’t buy it. She seemed sinister and deliberate. It was difficult to know what to think of Michael. We had virtually no back-story on him or what his motivations were. He obviously loves his wife, but it’s not clear if he’s actually happy.
Johanna and Alex, on the other hand, were superb. They’re relationship was extremely complex and the dinner scene brought another layer. Guillaume Canet was by far the best part of the film and his charm was very intoxicating and sweet. Johanna, although very unlikeable, was still very relatable and I empathized with her.
I really didn’t care much for the film after I first saw it, but after thinking about it more and more, I liked the film, but I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it. I was very pleased how my perceptions of the characters changed as the story developed, those are the best kinds of movies. With a great cast and intriguing story, this film will likely do well at the festival.
Last Night is playing at the Tribeca Film Festival with screenings on Monday 4/25, Tuesday 4/26 and Thursday 4/28.
Rating: It’s another great conversation film and a must-see if you are familiar with New York. 7/10
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