“The Night Clerk” (2020) is a crime drama film written and directed by Michael Cristofer, starring Tye Sheridan, Ana de Armas, John Leguizamo, and Helen Hunt. The story follows a young man, Bart Bromley (played by Tye Sheridan), who works as a night clerk at a hotel. Due to his Asperger’s syndrome, Bart has difficulty interacting with people but excels at observing their behavior. When a woman is murdered at the hotel, Bart becomes the prime suspect, and the investigation into the crime unravels his complicated life and his attempts to connect with others. The film blends elements of suspense, crime investigation, and personal drama, offering a deep dive into Bart’s world.

The plot of “The Night Clerk” centers on Bart, a hotel night clerk who has an extraordinary ability to observe people, which is essential in his job. However, his difficulty with social interactions leads him to misinterpret situations, which causes him to be seen as suspicious by others. After a woman named Andrea (Ana de Armas) is murdered in the hotel, Bart becomes the prime suspect due to his peculiar behavior and his presence at the crime scene. As the investigation deepens, Bart, while trying to prove his innocence, begins to form a complex relationship with Andrea’s former boyfriend, played by John Leguizamo. The investigation reveals hidden truths about Bart’s life, pushing him to confront both his limitations and his capacity for growth.

The film’s character development focuses primarily on Bart, a deeply nuanced character portrayed by Tye Sheridan. Bart’s struggle with social anxiety and his inability to fully understand social cues make him a sympathetic yet misunderstood figure. Throughout the film, Bart tries to navigate his relationships with the people around him, including his overprotective mother (Helen Hunt) and his growing bond with Andrea. As the plot unfolds, Bart’s growth becomes evident as he learns how to trust people and make difficult decisions. The characters surrounding Bart, such as Andrea and the investigating detective, add layers of complexity to the narrative, each reflecting different aspects of trust, suspicion, and vulnerability.

A central theme in “The Night Clerk” is the exploration of isolation and the human desire for connection. Bart’s inability to connect with others due to his condition is a poignant aspect of his character, and the film portrays his efforts to understand and form relationships with those around him. His growing friendship with Andrea highlights his desire for intimacy and his struggle to overcome his social barriers. The theme of isolation is also explored through the lens of the investigation, where Bart’s social awkwardness and lack of understanding of others’ motivations lead to suspicion, complicating his attempts at connection. The film ultimately emphasizes the emotional and psychological challenges of overcoming personal barriers to form meaningful relationships.

“The Night Clerk” successfully combines elements of suspense and crime investigation, maintaining a constant sense of tension throughout the film. As the murder investigation progresses, viewers are kept on edge, trying to piece together the mystery alongside the characters. The film gradually reveals clues and false leads, maintaining the suspense as Bart’s involvement in the crime is questioned. The tension is heightened by the fact that Bart is both an observer and a participant in the investigation, which keeps audiences guessing until the very end. The twists and turns in the plot contribute to the film’s sense of unpredictability, making it an engaging crime drama.

The performances in “The Night Clerk” are integral to the film’s emotional depth and suspense. Tye Sheridan’s portrayal of Bart is both sensitive and powerful, capturing the complexities of his character with subtlety. Ana de Armas brings depth to her role as Andrea, balancing vulnerability with strength. The supporting cast, including John Leguizamo and Helen Hunt, deliver strong performances that enhance the film’s emotional resonance. Michael Cristofer’s direction allows the characters to breathe, focusing on their internal struggles and creating a slow-burning narrative that captivates the viewer. The pacing of the film, paired with strong performances, ensures that the film remains compelling throughout.

In conclusion, “The Night Clerk” (2020) is a gripping crime drama that blends elements of suspense, emotional depth, and character-driven storytelling. The film explores themes of isolation, trust, and personal growth, with a standout performance by Tye Sheridan as the socially awkward yet intelligent Bart. The crime investigation adds a layer of tension, while the personal relationships between characters bring emotional complexity to the narrative. With strong performances and a well-paced plot, “The Night Clerk” is an intriguing and thought-provoking film that keeps audiences engaged until the final revelation.