The Night Watchman Movie Review 2002

Decent yet flawed thriller that borrows a bit too much from its acknowledged influences ("Magnolia," "American Beauty," and "Talk Radio"). Strong characterization makes the story of a burned-out, bitter talk show host struggling to come to terms with his failures and save a suicidal caller during his last broadcast a cut above other thrillers. Cheap sets and not-so-adequate performances keep it from becoming anything more. Canadian music video director Eldridge uses very little visual style, which heightens the bare-bones look of the film, as well as the nostalgia for the above mentioned influences.

Distribution

Night Watchman Productions, 599 Lawrence Ave. W., Toronto, ON M6A 1A5 Canada, Phone: (416)781-7400

Available on VHS
Running time 103 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Suspense, Radio, Suicide, Anti-Heroes

Screenplay

Jeff Caulfield

Cast

Christopher Healey, Cory Diamond

Director

Scott Eldridge