The new film “Night Always Comes,” directed by Benjamin Caron and based on Willy Vlautin’s 2021 novel, presents a raw and timely depiction of a working-class woman’s struggles in Portland, Oregon.
Starring Vanessa Kirby as Lynette, the film captures the harsh realities faced by individuals trying to claw their way to stability in a world where the odds are traditionally stacked against them.
In a recent interview, Caron highlighted the strong connection he and Kirby felt to the source material, commending Vlautin’s ability to depict the complexities of life for people grappling with financial insecurity.
“That man has so much soul,” Caron remarked. “Such an incredible, beautiful writer,” acknowledging the universal struggles depicted in Vlautin’s work.
Caron found that the narrative resonated not only with the setting of Portland but also reflected issues prevalent across the United States and even in the U.K.
Through Lynette’s character, the film delves into the relentless quest for a better life, showcasing her as a woman burdened with responsibilities, including caring for her developmentally disabled brother, Kenny.
“Night Always Comes,” now streaming on Netflix, was filmed on location in the Portland area, adding authenticity to its narrative.
After production wrapped, Caron reminisces about a road trip he took with his family, during which he encountered a woman working three jobs while attending college, illustrating the modern plight of many hard-working individuals.
Caron reflected on this unique tragedy, where those in essential roles, like nurses and caregivers, are unable to afford living in the cities where they serve.
Kirby’s Lynette is depicted as overwhelmed and striving for a semblance of stability, particularly through her aspiration to buy the house her family has called home for years.
However, when her mother Doreen uses the funds meant for the house’s down payment on a car instead, Lynette’s hopes are shattered.
Setting the stage for her desperate measures, the film intensifies as Lynette embarks on a perilous quest to raise the required $25,000 by morning.
Unlike many Hollywood portrayals of Portland, which often present a whimsical or idealized version of the city, “Night Always Comes” opts for a grittier perspective.
The film features visuals of homeless encampments and unsettling underpasses, creating an authentic backdrop that reflects the city’s most pressing challenges.
Caron emphasized his outsider perspective in portraying Portland, steering clear of the narratives often associated with “Portlandia.”
“I don’t come with any preconceived ideas about what ‘Portlandia’ is. I just observed,” he stated, asserting that the struggles shown in the film are relatable to many urban experiences across America.
By choosing to film in the less highlighted areas of the city, Caron aimed to capture the hidden complexities and diverse subcultures, drawing comparisons to the iconic New York City depicted in the classic film “Taxi Driver.”
In addition to showcasing Portland’s structural challenges, the film also reflects gentrification through scenes set in luxurious homes and establishments like the downtown Ritz-Carlton.
During one such encounter, Lynette meets a client, played by Randall Park, who is not only unwilling to help her financially but also finds humor in her plight, highlighting the stark contrasts within the city.
Caron expressed his affinity for Portland, emphasizing the kindness and hospitality he encountered during his four-month stay.
His positive experience was a stark juxtaposition to the themes of the film, asserting, “You’re very lucky to live where you are. Great city. Great people.”
As the film’s backdrop, Portland plays a crucial role in conveying the narrative’s emotional weight.
Caron’s commitment to filming in Portland, despite production discussions about relocating to Canada, stemmed from his belief that the story’s realism and the essence of Vlautin’s world could only be authentically captured in its original setting.
“The world that Willy had created felt very filmic,” Caron noted, explaining the importance of the city as a character within the story itself.
Having been enchanted by Portland’s lush and vibrant landscape, Caron found it to be a unique backdrop that complemented the narrative perfectly.
He even organized a crew screening of John Cassavetes’ 1980 thriller “Gloria” at the historic Hollywood Theatre, where Gena Rowlands plays a similar tough woman confronting danger.
This connection to strong female characters resonated with both Caron and Kirby, as Lynette is portrayed not as a victim but as a woman taking drastic measures to survive.
Caron elaborated on this complexity, describing Lynette’s decisions as “born of necessity, not morality,” illustrating how the pressure of her circumstances leads to a series of desperate actions.
Kirby, known for her intense performances, including her Oscar-nominated role in “Pieces of a Woman,” also serves as a producer on “Night Always Comes.”
Caron praised her contributions, emphasizing the collaborative nature of their working relationship.
“Our collaboration was immersive, not just from the character base, but also across the whole film,” he said, recognizing the significance of Kirby’s insights.
Describing her performance as both heartbreaking and explosive, Caron noted that Kirby imbues every moment with a raw, vulnerable intensity.
Ultimately, “Night Always Comes” offers a powerful exploration of struggle and resilience amid overwhelming odds, establishing a poignant dialogue about the modern American experience.
As societal issues surrounding affordability and financial security continue to dominate headlines, the film serves as a remarkable reflection of contemporary life, positioning itself as both a specific story and a universal tale of survival.
With its authenticity and emotional depth, “Night Always Comes” is a must-watch, now available for streaming on Netflix.
image source from：oregonlive
