Dirty Pretty Things (***1/2)
review by Jon Waterman

Okwe is an illegal immigrant that’s working two jobs just to get by. Senay is a legal immigrant that’s working illegally. Both of them work at a top-notch hotel in London. When Okwe finds something unusual while cleaning a toilet, they get entangled in an unusual world they could never imagine.

The film is dark and gritty with an interesting visual style. Director Stephen Frears and cinematographer Chris Menges show London as a horrid place, full of grimy locations and equally disgusting people. The underbelly of the city sometimes looks a bit too seedy and I found myself paying more attention to the tinted lighting than the story, if only for a couple seconds. Each location had a specific look and characterization to it, which aided the film by negating the need for establishing shots.

The story moved along just as efficiently. Actions and situations were not repeated. At times similar confrontations arose, but new circumstances had been added on, thus putting more pressure on the characters. The script by Steve Knight works very well. He wrote a fascinating movie full of suspense, confusion, intrigue, and raw emotions. Some may see the story as predictable, but only if one tries to figure out what’s going to happen. Watch the film more as a drama than a mystery and it will be more enjoyable.

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Okwe somehow out acts the charming Audrey Tautou (Senay). Although Audrey speaks English with a Turkish accent and still delivers her lines flawlessly, Chiwetel tops her. He didn’t have to go through as many hoops to deliver his lines, but it was more subdued and enigmatic. Also, with more time on screen, it’s easier to watch him grow and identify with his plight. The acting all around was fantastic. Everyone has their subtle quirks or creepy side. It was great to see so many people from different cultural backgrounds and languages come together for this film. With so much talent around the world, it can be humbling to be made aware of how little we know about. Even British actors don’t show up on American radar. Here we have a major motion picture with actors from the UK, France, Spain and Croatia all in the same amazing film.

“Dirty Pretty Things” is exactly what the title indicates. It’s dark and disturbing, but somehow enchantingly beautiful at the same time. The acting and direction astound and amaze. If you’re looking for an incredible movie to see in theatres this week, you won’t find one much more moving than this one.

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