Nocturna: Side A — The Great Old Man’s Night 2022

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, the film benefits from a disciplined visual language marked by muted, gray‑green palettes and careful composition of doorways as metaphoric portals. The cinematography captures intimate close‑ups that emphasize aging and frailty, while the editing maintains measured pacing that supports the contemplative tone. Production design reinforces the sense of decay, contributing to a cohesive aesthetic.

Character & Emotion

When evaluating character and emotion, the central performance by Pepe Soriano stands out as a nuanced portrayal of an aging mind confronting regret. Supporting actors deliver authentic interactions that deepen the protagonist’s isolation. The ensemble’s chemistry conveys a palpable sense of loss, allowing the audience to empathize with the frailty of memory and familial guilt.

Story & Flow

The narrative weaves a coherent yet lyrical structure, following the protagonist’s final night through fragmented memories and spectral visits. Pacing balances contemplative reflection with intermittent tension, sustaining engagement without sacrificing emotional depth. While the resolution leans on familiar tropes of reconciliation, the overall storytelling remains original in its integration of horror motifs with an intimate life review.

Sensory Experience

The sensory experience is marked by a pulse‑driven soundtrack that mirrors the protagonist’s heartbeat and the unsettling whine of his hearing aid, reinforcing immersion. Sound design accentuates quiet moments of dread, while visual composition employs a greenish decay motif that unifies the film’s melancholic atmosphere. Together they heighten emotional resonance.

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch value is high owing to the film’s layered emotional themes and subtle visual cues that reveal new meaning upon subsequent viewings. The nuanced performance and atmospheric soundscape encourage repeated contemplation of mortality and memory. While the plot remains straightforward, its depth and craftsmanship reward audiences who return for a deeper appreciation.