When you're alone and life is making you lonely you can always go downtown. But what happens when you find that the lights aren't necessarily brighter there? Sixties obsessed fashion student Eloise faces this very question in the 2021 psychological thriller Last Night in Soho. At once a supernatural suspense story in the vein of Alfred Hitchcock and a cautionary tale of exploitation and obsession the film relates a twisting tale that will haunt viewers on multiple levels. For a classic thriller with a modern twist follow Eloise through the darkest corners of Soho...if you dare.
The story begins by introducing viewers to aspiring fashion designer, Eloise. After losing her mother to suicide Eloise finds solace by retreating into the past through her infatuation with all things swinging sixties. It is also revealed that she possesses a psychic gift that allows her to see her mother's ghost. She is overjoyed when she learns that she has been accepted to a prestigious fashion school in London. Upon arriving, however, she is dismayed to learn that neither her school nor London are what she imagined. After suffering bullying at the hands of her caustic roommate she opts to move off campus into her own apartment. She is elated to find an apartment straight out of the vintage movies that she loves. She soon learns that her new home is not all that it seems, however, when she begins dreaming of Sandie, the glamorous woman who lived there decades earlier. While initially enchanted with these visions that seem straight out of old Hollywood her dreams soon descend into a nightmare that threatens to consume her.
At once a supernatural thriller, backstage drama, and coming of age story Last Night in Soho blends and bends genres to brilliant effect. In many ways the film acts as an antidote to such nostalgia focused stories as Midnight in Paris by highlighting the failings and even horrors of previous eras. Even as it showcases gorgeous sixties costumes and an addictive mod pop soundtrack the film expertly depicts both the glamour of the era and the rot lurking beneath its gilded surface. Whereas the hero in Midnight in Paris finds inspiration and a renewed lease on life through his time travelling, Eloise is faced with a bleak reality that stands in stark contrast to her vision of the 1960's. As she is confronted with Sandie's sixties experiences Eloise is forced to reevaluate her entire world view and redefine herself. In this way the film offers an apt warning against the dangers of nostalgia and a fresh interpretation of the coming of age story.
The script also stands out through its unique approach to horror. Perhaps the script's greatest strength lies in its exploration of the horrors lurking around the corners of everyday life. While the film does offer more traditional scares in its third act, the most visceral moments are those chronicling Sandie's descent into an abusive relationship and prostitution. In this way the film takes viewers on a terrifying journey into a personal hell more frightening than any monster or jump scare. The final twist in particular offers lasting and original thrills that challenge viewers' preconceptions and blur the line between victim and villain. Embark upon a night to remember with Eloise and Sandy in Last Night in Soho.
The film transports viewers to both the gritty streets of modern Soho and the swinging sixties thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Synnove Karlsen is a mean girl that viewers will love to hate as Eloise's vindictive roommate Jocasta. Michael Ajao personifies decency as Eloise's classmate and love interest, John. Former sixties starlet Rita Tushingham conveys warmth and understanding as Eloise's loving grandmother, Peggy. Terence Stamp lends mystery and menace in his enigmatic turn as policeman Lindsey. Diana Rigg perfectly captures the duality of her role as Eloise's curmudgeonly landlady Miss Collins. Matt Smith expertly balances the suave and the sinister as Sandie's boyfriend, Jack. Even in the midst of ample supporting performances the film belongs to Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy as Eloise and Sandie. McKenzie portrays Eloise with an infectious blend of innocence, charm, and quirkiness that recall ultimate sixties 'it girl' Audrey Hepburn. Joy blends vampish sensuality and aching vulnerability in a performance that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
At once a cautionary tale of the dangers of nostalgia and a love letter to the sixties Last Night in Soho is a ghost story that is sure to haunt viewers long after the closing credits fade. Through its innovative, twisting, plot the film offers a unique thriller that will keep viewers guessing until its final reveal. The magnetic work of the cast masterfully transports viewers to the streets of Soho past and present. Forget all your troubles and forget all your cares with Eloise and Sandie downtown where everyone's waiting for you in Last Night in Soho.
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