Belgian filmmaker, Michiel Blanchart, made an unforgettable debut with his feature film - Night Call (La Nuit Se Traîne). A gripping psychological thriller, the film draws comparisons to genre classics while remaining deeply rooted in social justice and personal accountability.
Premiering to critical acclaim at festivals including the Rome Film Fest, where it won the Grand Jury Prize, the film is a testament to Blanchart’s ability to merge cinematic thrills with profound social commentary, creating a landmark moment for Belgian cinema on the global stage.
A Bold New Vision
Blanchart, best-known for his award-winning short film, ‘You’re Dead, Hélène’, crafts a high-stakes narrative centred around Mady, a Black locksmith who becomes embroiled in a life-threatening conspiracy.
The story unfolds against a backdrop of a politically charged Brussels, drawing inspiration from real-world events by highlighting tensions between Black Lives Matter demonstrations and systemic challenges in modern-day Europe.
Mika Cotellon © 2024 - GAUMONT
This tense setting underscores Mady’s moral and physical evolution, blending intense action with deep human drama. This unique approach bridges the gap between arthouse and mainstream cinema, displaying that Belgian films can tackle complex themes whilst still being universally engaging.
In Night Call, Blanchart challenges conventional European filmmaking categories, merging action, social critique, and psychological depth. His depiction of Mady, an unconventional hero navigating both systemic oppression and personal turmoil, is a blaring call for empathy and resilience in the face of injustice.
International Acclaim for a Local Rising Star
Night Call’s success at the Rome Film Fest underscores the growing appeal of Belgian cinema on the global stage.
Blanchart’s ability to root his story within the streets of Brussels while resonating with audiences worldwide is a testament to his talent. In interviews, he has expressed his desire to bridge local and global storytelling, saying, “It’s about making universal themes feel intimate, drawing from the specificity of our own streets and experiences.”
Mika Cotellon © 2024 - GAUMONT
The film’s accolades are not only limited to Rome. Critics have praised its haunting visuals, poignant performances, and the unapologetically human approach Blanchart takes in dissecting issues, namely systemic racism and personal redemption.
His trajectory within the industry has been remarkable. With ‘You’re Dead, Hélène’ winning the Best Short Film Award at the Gérardmer Fantasy Film Festival and being shortlisted for the Oscars, he caught the attention of Hollywood veteran Sam Raimi, who is producing an American adaptation of the short. Yet, Blanchart remains committed to showcasing Belgian storytelling, proving that his home country can produce cinema that resonates on the global stage.
A New Chapter for Belgian Cinema
With Night Call, Blanchart joins a growing list of Belgian directors making their mark internationally. His success points to the burgeoning creative energy within Belgian cinema and its potential to captivate global audiences.
Blanchart’s achievement also highlights the importance of supporting emerging voices in film, whose stories often challenge us to confront uncomfortable truths while offering hope for future change.
photo credit: cineuropa.com
As Night Call embarks on its international journey through festivals and screenings, it’s clear that Michiel Blanchart has firmly positioned himself as a filmmaker to watch. His work not only elevates Belgian cinema, but also underscores its potential to drive meaningful conversations across borders.
This blend of cinematic ambition and social resonance is undoubtedly shaping a new chapter for Belgian cinema, positioning Blanchart as a key figure in its rise to international prominence.
