Introduction

Gone in the Night (2022) presents itself as a mystery-thriller that thrives on atmosphere, suspicion, and the fragility of human trust. Directed with a measured hand, the film is carried by Winona Ryder’s commanding presence and an unsettling narrative that keeps the viewer oscillating between intrigue and frustration.

Plot Overview

The story begins with Kath (Winona Ryder) and her younger boyfriend Max arriving at a secluded redwood cabin, only to discover that it has already been rented by another couple, Al and Greta. What starts as an awkwardly forced night of social games quickly turns disorienting. By morning, Max and Greta have disappeared, leaving Kath behind with Al’s ambiguous explanation of their supposed betrayal. Refusing to accept easy answers, Kath embarks on an obsessive investigation, partnering with the cabin’s enigmatic owner, Nicholas, to uncover the truth. What she finds is far stranger than betrayal—an intricate web of hidden motives, deception, and revelations that redefine the very fabric of trust.

Performances

• Winona Ryder as Kath: Ryder delivers a performance steeped in quiet vulnerability and quiet determination. Her nuanced portrayal grounds the story, giving weight to the film’s shifting tones.
• Dermot Mulroney as Nicholas: Mulroney imbues his character with an uneasy charm, balancing warmth with suspicion, which makes his role pivotal in Kath’s journey.
• Supporting Cast: John Gallagher Jr. and Brianne Tju add layers of tension as Al and Greta, whose presence lingers even after their sudden disappearance.

Direction and Atmosphere

The film’s greatest strength lies in its setting and atmosphere. The redwood cabin and surrounding forest become a silent accomplice to the story—both isolating and foreboding. The pacing, however, may divide audiences. While the slow-burn build offers moments of genuine suspense, the narrative occasionally falters, stretching certain threads thin before snapping them back with jarring revelations.

Strengths and Weaknesses

What Works

• A hauntingly atmospheric setting that enhances the psychological unease.
• Winona Ryder’s compelling performance anchors the story with emotional depth.
• A willingness to embrace unexpected narrative turns, even at the risk of alienating some viewers.

What Falls Short

• An uneven pacing that disrupts the film’s momentum.
• The final act, while bold, veers into the bizarre, leaving the audience divided between admiration and disbelief.
• Certain character motivations feel underdeveloped, weakening the impact of key revelations.

Final Verdict

Gone in the Night (2022) is not a film that seeks to please everyone. It is unsettling, strange, and at times disjointed—but it dares to take risks that few thrillers attempt. For audiences willing to embrace its peculiar rhythm and fragmented logic, it offers a provocative exploration of trust, betrayal, and the secrets that lurk in the shadows of the human heart.

Conclusion

While not flawless, the film remains memorable for its atmosphere and audacity. Like a whispered secret in the dark, it lingers—disturbing, incomplete, but undeniably hard to forget.