The Night Clerk is a psychological crime drama that explores themes of isolation, morality, and the blurred lines between observation and intrusion. Directed by Michael Cristofer, the film centers on Bart Bromley (Tye Sheridan), a socially awkward young man with Asperger’s syndrome who works the graveyard shift as a hotel night clerk.
Bart has difficulty connecting with people in conventional ways. To better understand social interactions, he secretly installs cameras in hotel rooms, observing guests to learn how they communicate and behave. While his intentions stem from a desire for personal growth, his actions are ethically questionable and set the stage for the movie’s central conflict.
One night, Bart witnesses a murder in one of the rooms he’s been secretly recording. Terrified that his involvement in the surveillance will come to light, he deletes the footage that could have been crucial evidence for solving the crime. This decision not only raises suspicions about his role in the incident but also attracts the attention of Detective Espada (John Leguizamo), who begins to investigate Bart as a potential suspect.
As the story unfolds, Bart forms a connection with Andrea Rivera (Ana de Armas), a mysterious and kind-hearted woman who checks into the hotel. Andrea treats Bart with compassion and seems to understand his struggles, creating a bond that allows him to open up emotionally. However, her presence adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, as it becomes unclear whether she has ulterior motives or is genuinely seeking a connection.
The film intensifies as Bart’s secret recordings come back to haunt him, putting him in a precarious position where he must navigate the consequences of his actions. Simultaneously, Bart’s relationship with Andrea deepens, leading him to question whether he can truly trust her.
The climax of The Night Clerk is a tense confrontation between Bart’s desire to do the right thing and his fear of being misunderstood or condemned. The film concludes ambiguously, leaving viewers to ponder the morality of Bart’s choices and the societal challenges faced by individuals like him.
The Night Clerk offers a compelling character study, balancing elements of mystery and drama with a poignant exploration of neurodiversity and human vulnerability. Its nuanced portrayal of Bart’s struggles and the moral dilemmas he faces makes it a thought-provoking film that lingers with the audience long after the credits roll.
