'Night Call' explores action, suspense, and urban grit

Michiel Blanchart’s thriller combines high-octane twists with a gritty backdrop in Brussels.

Jonathan Feltre in "Night Call." © Mika Cotellon/Magnet

By Adelina Indah and Novanka Laras

Michiel Blanchart’s Night Call takes viewers on a pulse-pounding ride through the nocturnal streets of Brussels, blending high-stakes action with a gritty urban aesthetic. At its heart is Mady, played by Jonathan Feltre, a young locksmith whose ordinary life takes a dramatic turn when a routine job spirals into chaos. The film, a breakneck urban thriller, thrives on twists, intense choreography, and a vibrant setting that mirrors the tension of its unfolding story.

The plot begins with Mady arriving at a seemingly routine locksmith gig. His client, Claire, portrayed by Natacha Krief, exudes nervous energy, reminiscent of a classic femme fatale grappling with a guilty conscience. Claire’s jittery demeanor sets the tone, and when it’s time to settle the bill, her actions deepen the mystery. She darts in and out of the unlocked apartment, promising to return with cash—a promise she never fulfills.

While this initial deception hints at trouble, Night Call wastes no time plunging Mady into an even more perilous predicament. The locksmith soon finds himself inside the apartment of a neo-Nazi brute—a situation made all the more dangerous by Mady’s identity as a Black man. The encounter escalates into a close-quarters brawl, choreographed with precision and intensity, showcasing Blanchart’s flair for action sequences.

From here, the story barrels forward with relentless energy. Mady, a mild-mannered man with a love for Petula Clark’s music, undergoes a dramatic transformation into an action hero. His journey involves stolen cash, dangerous gangsters, and a ruthless criminal network led by the charismatic French star Romain Duris.

While Night Call is primarily an action-packed thriller, it doesn’t shy away from engaging with contemporary social realities. The film incorporates themes that echo the Black Lives Matter movement, subtly weaving them into the narrative. For example, Mady’s hesitation to involve the police—a decision influenced by his awareness of systemic racism—sets off a chain of events that drives the plot.

Blanchart also uses a massive anti-police-brutality protest, taking place on the same night as Mady’s ordeal, to shape the film’s atmosphere. The streets of Brussels, alive with demonstrators, create a backdrop of tension and urgency as Mady navigates bodegas, brothels, and nightclubs in his desperate bid to survive. Blanchart’s vision transforms the Belgian capital into a gritty playground, its shadowy nooks and crannies adding to the film’s suspenseful tone.

Despite its social undertones, Night Call doesn’t position itself as a message-driven film. Instead, it leverages these elements to enhance the stakes and complexity of Mady’s journey. The protagonist’s struggles feel grounded in reality, even as the film leans into its crime-action tropes.

Blanchart’s direction elevates the familiar “regular guy gets sucked into the underworld” formula, injecting it with a fresh sense of style and energy. His snappy pacing keeps the audience engaged, while the dynamic use of Brussels as a setting brings a distinctive flair to the film. The city’s grittiness complements the story’s intensity, creating an immersive experience that feels both thrilling and authentic.

Jonathan Feltre delivers a standout performance as Mady, capturing the character’s evolution from a reluctant participant to a resourceful hero. His portrayal is both compelling and relatable, grounding the film’s high-octane narrative in genuine emotion. The supporting cast, including Natacha Krief and Romain Duris, adds depth and charisma to the story, enhancing its impact.

While Night Call excels in its action and suspense, it isn’t without flaws. Some of the film’s finer details may blur in memory, overshadowed by the adrenaline-fueled ride. Certain plot points, particularly those tied to the stolen cash and gang dynamics, feel secondary to the film’s broader themes of survival and resilience.

However, these shortcomings are overshadowed by the film’s strengths. Blanchart’s ability to balance tension, humor, and action creates a captivating experience. The fight scenes are meticulously crafted, and the pacing ensures that the audience remains on edge from start to finish.

The soundtrack also plays a significant role in shaping the film’s tone. Mady’s love for Petula Clark’s music provides moments of levity, contrasting with the darker aspects of the story. This juxtaposition adds a unique layer to the character and reinforces the film’s blend of intensity and charm.

As the story hurtles toward its conclusion, Night Call cements its place as a standout entry in the crime-action genre. Its combination of high-stakes thrills, social commentary, and dynamic storytelling ensures that it leaves a lasting impression.

For fans of urban thrillers, Night Call is a must-watch. Michiel Blanchart’s debut feature showcases his talent for crafting gripping narratives and memorable action sequences. The film’s exploration of contemporary issues adds depth to its story, while the vibrant setting of Brussels provides a distinctive backdrop.

In Night Call, Blanchart delivers a film that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. By blending action, suspense, and social awareness, he creates a narrative that resonates with modern audiences while staying true to the genre’s roots. This gripping thriller is a testament to the power of storytelling, proving that even in the darkest of circumstances, resilience and ingenuity can prevail.

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