Nocturne (2020)

Review Team

4/5

Nocturne, directed by Zu Quirke, is a compelling psychological thriller that explores the darker aspects of artistic ambition. The film follows a shy music student, played with nuance and depth, who discovers a notebook belonging to a deceased classmate. This pivotal moment sets off a chain of event ... Show more >> Nocturne, directed by Zu Quirke, is a compelling psychological thriller that explores the darker aspects of artistic ambition. The film follows a shy music student, played with nuance and depth, who discovers a notebook belonging to a deceased classmate. This pivotal moment sets off a chain of events that leads her to overshadow her more talented twin sister. The performances are commendable, particularly the dynamic between the sisters, which captures the complexities of sibling rivalry. The cinematography enhances the film's eerie atmosphere, drawing viewers into the elite academy's haunting halls. Themes of jealousy and the price of success are woven throughout, making Nocturne not just a horror film but a poignant commentary on the lengths one might go to achieve greatness. While some pacing issues arise, the film ultimately delivers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Nocturne offers an intriguing premise that, unfortunately, doesn't fully hit the mark. The story about a timid music student who finds a mysterious notebook has all the ingredients for a gripping tale but falters at times in execution. The performances are solid, especially from the lead, who captur ... Show more >> Nocturne offers an intriguing premise that, unfortunately, doesn't fully hit the mark. The story about a timid music student who finds a mysterious notebook has all the ingredients for a gripping tale but falters at times in execution. The performances are solid, especially from the lead, who captures the essence of insecurity and ambition. However, the film's pacing feels uneven, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary, which detracts from the overall tension. The darker elements are effective, but they can feel somewhat predictable if you're familiar with the genre. While it does have its moments, Nocturne may leave some viewers wanting more. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers, it’s worth a watch, but don't expect it to be a groundbreaking experience. Show less