Last Night

Last Night

Directed by Massy Tadjadin

With Keira Knightly, Sam Worthington, Eva Mendes and Guillaume Cadet

A photogenic young married couple lives in a super chic Manhattan loft. Joanna (Keira Knightly) and Michael(Sam Worthington), ex pats from London, have been married three years. They both have exciting jobs and stylish wardrobes. Everything looks pretty as they dress to go to a party as “Last Night” begins. But there is an awkwardness between them. What’s going on? Marital distrust and communication breakdown are not unique to this married couple, but these issues are compassionately observed in “Last Night.”

It all happens in one day. At the party, Joanna warily observes Michael as he interacts with his gorgeous coworker, Laura (Eva Mendes). Laura can hardly keep her hands or her eyes off of him. At home after the party, Joanna accuses Michael of being interested in Laura. She finally wears him down, and he admits that he does find Laura attractive. Joanna’s hidden tensions and doubts intensify.

The next morning Michael leaves on a business trip with—guess who—Laura. Coincidentally, on that very same morning, Joanna happens upon an old boyfriend, a young Frenchman named Alex (Guillaume Caudet). Their rapport is instantaneously rekindled and they make plans to have dinner together that evening while Michael is away.

The remainder of “Last Night” crosscuts between Joanna/Alex and Michael/Laura. Sparks fly as each couple spends their respective evenings together. Will Joanna and Michael cheat on each other?

It is a simple plot, done before. Marriages are destroyed by jealousy and insecurity. How can a married couple resist being unfaithful when faced with very appealing temptation? Joanna and Michael struggle with this dilemma in their own ways as the night progresses and the alcohol flows.

“Last Night” asks you to decide what comprises “cheating.” Is it merely a kiss or an embrace? Or does it need to go further to be infidelity? Is it harmful to a marriage?

Keira Knightly is perfect as a woman plagued by a jealous heart. Sam Worthington struggles with his own demons in a more inward way. Long, provocative silences between the couples speak volumes. However, one wonders why two British actors were asked to play the leads in this New York/American film. The same goes for Joanna’s ex, Alex, who is French. Also, I can't for the life of me figure out why Lucy, a placid Labrador retriever, is inserted into “Last Night” for much of the film for no apparent reason.

It’s always fun to observe New York’s sparkling night life, scenes of parties, restaurants and beautiful vistas of TriBeca streets slick with rain. “Last Night” is atmospheric and beautifully filmed.

Director Massy Tadjedin has a firm grasp of how couples interact by what they say and don’t say. Her film keenly observes the dangers and pleasures of crossing the line in marriage. Both Joanna and Michael know they are treading in treacherous waters. Was it worth it for them?

I am not sure.