Review of Dirty Pretty Things (2002) by Jen P — 04 Aug 2007

While I may not be a fan of Stephen Frears' political films, he has done some good stuff. Dangerous Liasons and High Fidelity, two excellent films. And now a third to add to the list, Dirty Pretty Things. While it is officially a drama film, I consider it more of a documentary. Yes there is a plot, but it's more of an insight into the shocking truth about selling body parts.

It's ultimately about a nigerian taxi driver and hotel receptionist, Okwe (Chiwetel Ejiofor), and a Turk, Senay (Audrey Tattou). They both want passports so they could move to another country and start better lives. The manager at the hotel Okwe works at is involved in kidney selling, and he offers them both attractive incentives involving this immoral market.

It's a very interesting take on this ever-growing trade, and just highlights what the world is coming to.

Ejiofor and Tattou are both excellent, both justifying their fantastic success since.

It's difficult to compare this film to anything, because the niche it falls into has so few competitors. I believe for that reason, coupled with its brilliance, makes for a must-see movie.