A feeble attempt to make a PC Chandler-style noir set in London today. Of course the BBC Films & BFI logos at the start are signs of a right-on multicultural PC propaganda story to follow and they rarely disappoint. City of Tiny Lights tries unsuccessfully to depict a tough Chandleresque PI in London. Sadly, a poor script and direction by someone who has either not seen or not learned from the classic Film Noirs of the 1940's results in a confusing and plodding narrative. In place of smart dialogue and engaging characters we have gimmicky shots and a restless camera, which despite a fine lead performance, results in a tedious film set in a very multicultural part of London.
If you want to see real film noir Chandler, watch Edward Dmytryk's Murder My Sweet instead.
If you want to see real film noir Chandler, watch Edward Dmytryk's Murder My Sweet instead.