Review: Night Always Comes

“Night Always Comes” begins by highlighting the rising rents that are forcing people onto the streets. Lynette (played by Vanessa Kirby) is in a state of panic as she searches for her mother (portrayed by Jennifer Jason Leigh) while at the bank, attempting to save her home. With only twenty-four hours to come up with $25,000, Lynette faces a dire situation that leaves her with no choice but to make some extremely questionable decisions to ensure her brother Kenny (played by Zack Gottsagen) has a roof over his head.

In terms of suspense, this film’s pacing is extremely slow. At first, it seems to build gradually, but by the time the second act begins, there’s nothing to keep the audience on their toes. “Night Always Comes” feels more like a character study than a crime thriller. However, it succeeds in this approach because Kirby is enthralling on screen. Her poise and fierce nature keep you engaged as her character continues to wreak havoc on her life.

The lighting and cinamatography are stunning in this film, however there is a lot of saying and not seeing. The first 15 minutes are dominated by newscasts and radio broadcasts discussing the rise in foreclosures, yet the screen does not fully depict the resulting poverty. We catch glimpses of Lynette’s life, but these glimpses are not sufficient for a deep emotional connection to her character. While her struggles and methods of obtaining money are heavily implied, there is not enough information provided to truly understand her troubling past.

The best moments of this film occur between Lynette and her brother. The two share a charming dynamic, and it is during these interactions that Lynette’s motivations become clearer. “Night Always Comes” is an ambitious film that attempts to address class disparities, but ultimately it falls short. Kirby is captivating on screen and holds your attention, but the film doesn’t quite deliver a lasting impact.