In Hugo Ruíz’s One Night With Adela (Una Noche Con Adela), the camera becomes our unyielding companion, capturing every moment of a vengeful woman’s rampage as she traverses the city streets. From encounters with her drug dealer to harrowing altercations with street harassers, and even a shocking rendezvous with a male prostitute, Adela’s journey is a relentless assault on the senses. The choice to shoot the film as one continuous take (a choice becoming more and more popular with each passing festival season), immerses the audience in the heart-pounding chaos, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Laura Galán delivers a tour de force performance as Adela, a woman driven to seek revenge at any cost. Galán’s portrayal is fierce and unyielding, capturing the essence of a character pushed to the brink. Through her physicality and emotional intensity, Galán effortlessly conveys Adela’s determination and the simmering rage that fuels her actions. Her ability to command the screen and hold our attention is immediate and unyielding.
“…heart-pounding chaos, keeping you on the edge of your seat…”
Adding a unique layer to the narrative, Adela periodically updates her exploits to a radio talk show host, providing a chilling insight into her psyche. These moments serve as a haunting reminder of the darkness that resides within Adela and the twisted justifications she finds for her actions. It’s a clever narrative device that adds depth to the character and intensifies the tension.
However, as the night progresses and Adela’s mission becomes clearer, the story loses some of its initial explosive energy. The early hours are a chaotic whirlwind of violence, with Adela’s fury manifesting as an explosion of pain and aggression. Yet, as the plot develops, it becomes evident that her acts of vengeance are part of a deeply personal and calculated plan. This shift in tone ultimately results in a less satisfying finale than I had hoped for. That said, the story is uniquely Adela’s, and you better believe Adela finds satisfaction.
While the measured pacing and deliberate nature of the climax may left me longing for a little something more, One Night With Adela is a bold and daring debut, driven by a powerhouse performance from Laura Galán. While it may not reach the explosive crescendo one might anticipate, it remains an unflinching exploration of vengeance and the darkness that lies within the people the world has chosen to look down on.
Hugo Ruíz’s direction deserves applause for his ability to maintain the tension throughout the unbroken take, effectively utilizing the camera as a character in its own right. The technical achievements in executing such a feat cannot be understated, and the result is an immersive experience that will keep you glued to the screen. While it may not reach the explosive crescendo one might anticipate, it remains an unflinching exploration of vengeance and the darkness that lies within. Prepare to be captivated by Adela’s harrowing night, as she takes you on a journey through her pain, anger, and ultimately, redemption.
“…a bold and daring debut, driven by a powerhouse performance from Laura Galán.”
Hugo Ruíz’s One Night With Adela (Una Noche Con Adela) celebrated it’s World Premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival. Let us know if you’re excited to experience this renegade rampage of revenge over on Twitter or in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord! Not a social media fan? Get more horror delivered straight to your inbox by joining the Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.
