After Hours
After Hours

After Hours

1985Movie97 minEnglish

Desperate to escape his mind-numbing routine, uptown Manhattan office worker Paul Hackett ventures downtown for a hookup with a mystery woman.

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Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic80/100
Google Users87%
Director: Martin ScorseseGenres: Comedy, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A mild-mannered word processor named Paul Hackett finds himself embroiled in a series of bizarre and escalating misadventures after a date with a mysterious artist named Marcy goes disastrously wrong. As night falls over New York City's SoHo district, Paul attempts to navigate a labyrinth of eccentric characters, mistaken identities, and surreal circumstances in a desperate bid to get home. The night spirals further out of control, transforming his simple quest into a surreal and increasingly frantic urban odyssey.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'After Hours' was a critical darling, with many praising Martin Scorsese's unique directorial vision and the film's dark comedic tone. While not a box office smash, it has since garnered a significant cult following and is often cited as one of Scorsese's most underrated works. Critics lauded its inventive screenplay, energetic pacing, and sharp wit, appreciating its departure from his more typical dramatic fare.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its surreal humor and fast-paced, escalating plot.
  • Lauded Martin Scorsese's masterful direction and stylistic flair.
  • Appreciated for its unique blend of dark comedy and urban anxiety.

Google audience: Audiences generally loved the film's quirky humor, unpredictable plot, and the frantic energy that drives Paul's misadventures. Many found it to be a surprisingly funny and engaging dark comedy that captures a unique New York City vibe. Some viewers noted that the film's surreal nature and breakneck pace might not appeal to everyone, but the overall sentiment is highly positive.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Martin Scorsese won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The entire film takes place over a single night, from dusk till dawn, with the narrative meticulously tracking the passage of time and the increasing desperation of the protagonist.

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