Night Watch (Ronda Nocturna)

Director: Edgardo Cozarinsky
Starring: Gonzalo Heredia, Moro Anghileri, Rafael Ferro, Mario Fello, Dario Tripicchio
Running Time: 82 mins

Night Watch begins as a portrayal of what could be mistaken for an average night for 20-year old rent boy Viktor. He makes his way through the Buenos Aries night in search of custom both for sex and for drugs. He makes an exchange in a restaurant's toilet, he sleeps with a man he must see twice a week in order to receive 'protection' and provides services in an exclusive gym before moving on to entertain a wealthy diplomat.

However, as the night wears on it takes on a much more sinister and ominous atmosphere. Viktor sees a woman kiss her boyfriend before pushing him under the wheels of a passing truck, and he meets up with an old friend who then tries to smother him with a pillow after they sleep together.

These odd situations are heaped in mystery for the protagonist and the audience both, with Viktor playing the part with a nonchalant smile and bemused air as the plot unfolds.

The explanation for the surreal experiences of the night only comes in the last few minutes, the moment of realisation quite literally haunting. Cozarinsky's build-up and denouement deliver a great sense of satisfaction and surprise.