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Nightride is a 2021 thriller film directed by Stephen Fingleton and stars Moe Dunford in the lead role, with Joana Ribeiro and Gerard Jordan in supporting roles. The film presents a real-time, one-take narrative that unfolds over the course of a single night on the streets of Belfast, Northern Ireland, providing viewers with an immersive experience that combines drama, suspense, and the raw realism of the city’s nocturnal landscape.

The plot centers on Budge, portrayed by Moe Dunford, a small-time drug dealer working to get out of the business and start fresh. With ambitions to leave his criminal life behind, Budge’s plans are pinned on one final deal that he hopes will provide him with the necessary funds to start anew. The film employs an innovative storytelling approach, using the real-time format to build tension and keep viewers engaged with Budge’s high-stakes journey as the night progresses.

Budge is a complex character, a man with a troubled past looking to make better choices for his future. Dunford’s performance captures the depth and nuance of a person caught between the dualities of the criminal underworld and the longing for legitimate success. He maneuvers through the obstacles of his chosen profession with a mix of street smarts and vulnerability that make him a compelling anti-hero for the audience to root for.

Joana Ribeiro and Gerard Jordan deliver strong performances as key figures in Budge's life and the deal he is attempting to close. Ribeiro’s character, replete with her own goals and motivations, intersects with Budge's world in ways that deepen the narrative. Jordan’s character adds another layer to the film's fabric, enriching the story with distinct perspectives on loyalty, trust, and consequence.

The single-take format of Nightride serves as more than just a cinematic technique; it acts as a metaphor for the inescapability of Budge's situation. There are no cuts or edits to provide relief from the tension or give the illusion of time passing differently. The audience is therefore placed in the passenger seat, experiencing the unfolding events in real-time as Budge navigates the labyrinth of his criminal dealings, encountering various characters that offer glimpses into his life and the lives of those impacted by his actions.

The city of Belfast itself emerges as a character within the movie, with its neon-lit streets and shadowy alleys providing the backdrop for the story. Cinematographer Damien Elliott captures the essence of the urban environment, using the cityscape to frame the action and enhance the narrative’s sense of urgency. The setting is as much a part of the storytelling as the dialogue and performances, contributing to the mood and atmosphere of the film.

Nightride effectively utilizes its sound design and score to punctuate the drama and suspense. The absence of traditional film cuts means that much of the emotional impact is conveyed through the sonic elements, which are meticulously crafted to immerse viewers in the highs and lows of Budge’s perilous evening. The soundtrack, interwoven with the ambient sounds of Belfast at night, complements the visual storytelling, creating a visceral connection with the audience.

Stephen Fingleton’s direction is precise and deliberate, orchestrating the intricate details of the one-shot production to ensure that each moment counts. The challenge of maintaining continuity and dramatic tension without the luxury of multiple takes is met with skilled choreography of the actors and camera work, ensuring that the narrative flow remains consistent and engaging throughout. His ability to maintain this delicate balance speaks to the film's directorial ambition and technical execution.

Nightride stands out for its approach to storytelling, serving as an innovative entry into the thriller genre. It’s a film that takes risks with its format, choosing to tell a gripping, edge-of-your-seat story through the lens of a real-time, continuous shot. The result is a tense, atmospheric, and ultimately human exploration of one man’s quest for redemption in a world that rarely offers second chances. The movie bravely engages with themes of choice and consequence, showcasing the intertwining of individual agency within the structural confines of socio-economic realities.

In summary, Nightride is a cinematic journey through the night that offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the classic themes of crime and redemption. It captures the imagination with its technical prowess, emotionally resonant performances, and its unflinching portrayal of a life hanging in the balance on the precipice of a crucial decision. As Budge attempts to steer his life toward a better horizon, the film takes audiences on an unforgettable ride through one man’s pivotal night where every second counts and one turn can change everything.

Nightride is a 2021 thriller. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 51.