176) Dirty Pretty Things (2002)
An illegal Nigerian immigrant discovers the unpalatable side of London life.
8/10 – An intelligent, well-directed and well-acted romantic drama, with the added twist of being classed a not-so thrilling thriller too. Excellent performances from Audrey Tautou (Amélie) as the Turkish hotel maid and Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years A Slave) as the Nigerian Hotel Front Desk operator. In particular, Sergi López’s performance (Pan’s Labyrinth) shone as the greasy Hotel Manager at the centre of all that is uneasy about this film. It’s set in the places of London you don’t often see, unless you go looking for them; Weird hotel rooms, back alleys, sweatshops and taxi offices, this intriguing and gritty look at the capital provides the perfect backdrop to this unusual film. It’s bleak, at times absolutely horrible, but ultimately it’s that glimmer of hope that keeps you going.
On Netflix – Highly recommended.
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