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Night on Earth (1991)

Directed by:
Jim Jarmusch
COUNTRY
USA

GENRE
Drama/Comedy

NORWEGIAN TITLE
Night on Earth

RUNNING TIME
125 minutes

Produced by:
Jim Jarmusch
Written by:
Jim Jarmusch


Cast includes:

CHARACTER ACTOR/ACTRESS RATING
Victoria Snelling Gena Rowlands
Corky Winona Ryder ½
Helmut Grokenberger Armin Mueller-Stahl ½
Yo Yo Giancarlo Esposito ½
Angela Rosie Perez
Driver Isaach de Bankolé
Blind Woman Beatrice Dalle
Gino Roberto Benigni ½
Priest Paolo Bonacelli
Mika Matti Pellonpää

 

Review

Without necessarily intending to convey a profound meaning or a striking message, Jim Jarmusch handles his simple idea of portraying five different taxi drivers in five different world cities on a random night with great care (yes, I know I just called Helsinki a world city). Night on Earth alternates between a bright outlook on life and a more somber perspective. Jarmusch allows his characters to take center stage without meddling too much in either their or our situation. With strong characterizations, a well-thought-out screenplay, and cheerful comments and observations, Night on Earth becomes a rather enjoyable experience. Standout moments include the scene in New York where Helmut and Yo Yo argue over who has the most bizarre name, as well as Roberto Benigni's unforgettable monologue as he drives to pick up his next passenger.

Copyright © 06.11.1996 Fredrik Gunerius Fevang
(English version: © 10.02.2024 Fredrik Gunerius Fevang)