Movies: For Night Will Come (2023) by Céline Rouzet: A Coming-of-Age Vampire Tale in Suburbia
- dailyentertainment95
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Hiding in Plain Sight
For Night Will Come (Original title: En attendant la nuit) is a 2023 French-Belgian horror-drama directed by Céline Rouzet, co-written by Rouzet and William Martin. Set in a quiet, late-1990s French suburb, it follows the Feral family, who move in with plans to appear normal and friendly. However, their son, Philemon (Mathias Legout Hammond), is a teenage vampire struggling to conceal his thirst for human blood. As he befriends his neighbor Camila (Céleste Brunnquell), his struggle between belonging and his dangerous nature intensifies, making his difference impossible to hide.
The title reflects the tension between day and night, normality and otherness.
The film combines coming-of-age themes with vampire horror and family drama.
It explores themes of identity, alienation, and the longing for acceptance against the backdrop of the supernatural.
Why to Recommend For Night Will Come: Poignant, Atmospheric, and Thoughtful
Unique Genre Blend: Combines horror with a tender coming-of-age story.
The film balances supernatural elements with emotional realism.
Strong Lead and Supporting Cast: Mathias Legout Hammond delivers an expressive performance as Philemon; Élodie Bouchez and Jean-Charles Clichet portray concerned parents.
Stylish Direction: Céline Rouzet creates an atmospheric visual style accentuating the family’s isolation and internal struggle.
Themes of Belonging and Difference: Examines the pains of adolescence paralleled with vampiric transformation.
Subtle Social Critique: Reflects societal expectations, conformity pressures, and xenophobia in suburban life.
Evocative Soundtrack: Incorporates period music and mood-setting compositions.
This film appeals to viewers seeking layered horrors intertwined with thoughtful drama.
Where to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/for-night-will-come (US), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/for-night-will-come (UK)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt22986716/
Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/449260/
About movie: https://playtime.group/film/6340322f5d849700042d58da
What is the Trend Followed? Coming-of-Age Horror with Family Focus
For Night Will Come aligns with a recent trend in horror cinema emphasizing introspective, family-centered narratives where supernatural conditions metaphorically reflect real-world adolescent struggles.
Films blend genre and emotional complexity to humanize “monstrous” characters.
Emphasis on atmosphere, character psychology, and social issues.
These stories often reject traditional horror in favor of nuanced storytelling.
The film exemplifies this modern horror approach through its vampire allegory.
Director’s Vision: Céline Rouzet’s Delicate Horror and Human Drama
Atmospheric Realism: Uses naturalistic settings and lighting to ground the supernatural.
Dual Narrative: Balances the teenage experience with parental challenges.
Visual Symbolism: Recurring imagery (e.g., bridge scenes) underscores transition and forbidden desires.
Focus on Emotional Nuance: Presents both tenderness and tension in family dynamics.
Breaking Vampire Tropes: Portrays Philemon as an ethical vampire struggling with his nature.
Social Commentary: Critiques the idealized suburban life and hidden prejudices.
Rouzet crafts a film that is haunting yet intimate, blending horror with empathy.
Themes Explored in For Night Will Come: Alienation and Acceptance
Transformation and Identity: Metaphor for adolescence and difference.
Family and Protection: Parents’ desperate efforts to shield their son.
Isolation: Social rejection mirrored in vampiric solitude.
Love and Danger: Philemon’s affection for Camila challenges his nature.
Conformity vs. Otherness: The struggle to fit in while hiding true self.
Socio-cultural Critique: Suburban veneer masks xenophobia and hypocrisy.
These themes weave a poignant exploration of growing up and belonging while supernatural.
Key Success Factors: Emotional Depth, Stylish Horror, Strong Cast
Mathias Legout Hammond’s Compelling Lead: Captures vulnerability and inner conflict effectively.
Céline Rouzet’s Direction: Balances horror and drama with visual poetry.
Supporting Cast: Enhance emotional and narrative complexity.
Sound and Music: Enriches atmosphere and period setting.
Narrative Ambiguity: Invites reflection on literal and metaphorical meanings.
Cultural Resonance: The film marries genre elements with social relevance.
These factors make For Night Will Come a distinctive addition to contemporary horror cinema.
Awards & Nominations: Festival Success
For Night Will Come premiered at the 2023 Venice Film Festival and has since collected 5 wins and 2 nominations across various international festivals. The film has been lauded for its fresh take on vampire mythology and strong emotional core.
Critics Reception: Mixed to Positive Reviews
Critics praise the film’s atmosphere, performances, and thoughtful themes.
Some note the slow pacing and understated horror may not appeal to all audiences.
The film is recognized as an artful, symbolic genre work combining horror and family drama.
Reviews: Audience Reflections
IMDb rating around 5.6/10 suggests divided but engaged audience.
Fans highlight the film’s emotional narrative and stylish visuals.
Some viewers desire more traditional horror but appreciate the unique approach.
Release Dates: When and Where
Venice Film Festival premiere: September 6, 2023 (Italy).
French theatrical release: June 5, 2024.
Available in Canada, Belgium, Austria, and the United States through 2024.
Movie Trend: Genre-Hybrid Horror Focused on Adolescence
For Night Will Come participates in the evolving horror landscape emphasizing internal struggles, transformation, and family perspectives rather than conventional scares. It blends supernatural mythos with coming-of-age and social critique.
Social Trend: Exploring Difference and Belonging in Modern Society
The film reflects broader cultural conversations about acceptance, identity, and the fear of otherness. It allegorizes adolescent alienation through the vampire metaphor and critiques suburban societal norms.
Final Verdict: Poignant, Stylish, and Thought-Provoking
For Night Will Come is a moody and sensitive horror-drama that explores adolescence, family, and identity with originality. Its evocative visuals, atmospheric storytelling, and strong performances mark it as an important contemporary genre film with emotional resonance.