In the Darkness of the Night

Name: In the Darkness of the Night
Director: João Canijo
Genre: Crime, Drama
Released: 2004-01-01
Duration: 94 min
Rating: 5.7
Cast: Beatriz Batarda, Rita Blanco, Fernando Luís, Cleia Almeida, José Raposo

2004Dir. João Canijo1h 34m

Track this movie free Wishlist

Check price on Amazon Browse eBay listings

Amazon and eBay links may be affiliate links.

About This Movie

In the Darkness of the Night offers a stark glimpse into the grim realities of Portugal's prostitution underbelly. Canijo's direction creates an incredibly immersive atmosphere, almost suffocating in its heaviness. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the viewer to really sit with the discomfort of the characters' lives. The film is marked by its raw performances, which feel unapologetically real, almost as if you're peering into a world most would rather ignore. What stands out is its unflinching portrayal of desperation and survival, making the thematic weight feel palpable. Practical effects are minimal, but the gritty realism serves the narrative well, emphasizing emotional depth over spectacle. It's this blend of haunting tone and character study that makes it distinctive.

Grim depiction of underworld themesIntense performancesAtmospheric direction by João Canijo