In mid 1990s Croatian audiences expected to see Nattevagten, 1994 Danish thriller by Ole Bornedal, one of the most popular genre films made in Europe at the time. But after few years it became painfully obvious that Croatian distributors don't consider Croatia to have same taste as the rest of Europe. The film, which was supposed to have regular distribution, failed to materialise not only on theatres but also on video store shelves. Croatian audience had to settle with Nightwatch, Ole Bornedal's 1997 Hollywood remake of his own film.
Protagonist of the film is Martin Bells (played by Ewan MacGregor), law student who takes part-time job as security guard in local morgue. The idea is to earn money while having some quiet time for studying. But the morgue proves to be much scarier place than Martin has anticipated and Martin's job affects his friends and loved ones. Martin's girlfriend Katharine (played by Patricia Arquette) isn't happy, unlike his friend James (played by Josh Brolin) who is obsessed with morbid subjects and likes practical jokes. One of such practical jokes include 17-year old prostitute Joyce (played by Alix Koromzay). Things get complicated when prostitutes like her become prey of nasty serial killer. One night Martin finds that someone has been messing with corpses. Martin becomes a suspect in the case, but Inspector Cray (played by Nick Nolte) believes his innocence.
Nightwatch, to a certain degree, works as very effective horror thriller due to Bornedal's ability to use viewers' claustrophobia and fear of dark. Scenes that take place in morgue are very effective and for some time audience can ask itself whether the protagonist would keep his sanity or not. Unfortunately, atmosphere alone can't carry this film. Plot is weak and the characterisation is poor. Ewan MacGregor seems not quite interested for his role while Patricia Arquette is simply irritating. Supporting players are much better - Josh Brolin is effective as young psychopath, while Lonny Chapman as retiring guard and Brad Dourif as physician provide necessary creepiness. The most disappointing thing about Nightwatch is its murder mystery - identity of the killer is easily guessed even by less experienced viewers. Another European success was, therefore, transformed into Hollywood mediocrity.
RATING: 4/10 (+)
(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on May 29th 004)
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