Night Moves

In Kelly Reichardt’s compelling drama Night Moves, three environmental terrorists plot to blow up a dam. But this is no simplistic Hollywood heist movie. 

Instead, expect a taut political thriller, which focuses as much on the consequences of the bombing as the heist itself. When organic farm worker Josh (Jesse Eisenberg) teams up with idealistic spa-worker Dena (Dakota Fanning) and renegade (bomb-making) Harmon (Peter Sarsgaard), the trio must not only overcome the obstacles to hatch their plan, but also face up to the realities of the crime they have instigated. Now battling a life of paranoia fuelled by the media frenzy they have prompted, friendship and personal values are put to the test. And viewers are asked to consider whether protest can ever be truly selfless. 

Reichardt’s most recent film Meek’s Cutoff, a plaintive re-mastering of the American western, demonstrated a talent for an inventive approach on traditional genres that is developed deftly in her latest instalment. As her previous work will attest (Meek’s Cut Off, Old Joy), this director/screenwriter is far more concerned with character-based, human drama than the film’s theme would initially suggest.

Reichardt’s sharp eye for political and social questions will be aptly matched with astute performances. Expect gripping intensity from the Oscar nominated J esse Eisenberg (The Social Network, Now You See Me, The Double), as his character deteriorates from arrogant idealist to jittery despair. Dakota Fanning (I Am Sam, War Of The Worlds) and Peter Sarsgaard (Jarhead, Flight Plan) likewise bring masterful acting talent to a stimulating cast.