Night Nurse, a film by Georgia Bernstein, premiered at the 49th Sundance Film Festival. This intriguing movie stars Cemre Paksoy and Bruce McKenzie, drawing you into a twisted world of deception and manipulation.
At its heart, Night Nurse explores the story of Douglas, an elderly man in a retirement home. When a new nurse, Eleni, joins the staff, she unwittingly steps into Douglas’s elaborate schemes. While she initially views Douglas as an eccentric patient, complications arise that entangle her further into his dark games.
The film immediately grabs attention with its start, featuring a clever phone scam where nurses impersonate family members to exploit vulnerable targets. Douglas guides Eleni through this web of lies. The plot thickens as we witness Eleni’s conflicting feelings—she oscillates between judgment of Douglas and an unhealthy attachment to him.
Mimi Rogers shines as Doctor Mann, the nursing supervisor. Her character appears to understand Douglas’s true nature, but she also gets her hands dirty in the schemes—adding layers to the unfolding drama.
As the story progresses, boundaries blur between loyalty and manipulation. Eleni’s increasing obsession with Douglas raises questions. Is she merely a pawn in his game, or is she a willing player?
Interestingly, recent data shows that scams similar to the one depicted in the film are on the rise, particularly targeting the elderly. The Federal Trade Commission reported a staggering 40% increase in fraud against seniors in the past few years. This real-world context adds a chilling aspect to the film’s narrative, making it feel alarmingly relevant.
In the film’s focal scenes, the tension reaches its peak. Bruce McKenzie delivers a captivating performance as Douglas, showcasing a blend of charisma and instability. Paksoy’s portrayal of Eleni is equally compelling, as her character’s descent into madness becomes evident throughout the film.
Many viewers liken Bernstein’s work to David Cronenberg’s Crash, but it carries its unique voice and edge. The film maintains interest until the end, presenting twists that keep the audience guessing. Questions linger about Eleni’s loyalty and her mental state—ensuring it stays in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll.
Cemre Paksoy’s performance is a standout, bringing depth to her role. Her journey from sweet nurse to a morally compromised figure fascinates and unsettles, keeping the audience engaged with her transformation.
Georgia Bernstein has crafted a film that raises important questions about trust, loyalty, and the darker sides of human nature. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a hint of horror, Night Nurse is worth a watch, especially for those late-night movie marathons. It leaves you pondering the thin line between victimhood and complicity in a world filled with deception.
Rating: 7/10
