Night Film is one of those books that the internet book world has been discussing for some time, particularly the many book podcasts I listen to. All conversations and teasers surrounding the book had me hooked and I couldn’t wait to get a copy. So, as soon as I laid my hands on Marisha Pessl’s Night Film, I gave it a hug, opened it and was instantly obsessed.
The story follows journalist Scott McGrath investigating the apparent suicide of Ashley Cordova, daughter of cult horror director, Stanislas Cordova. McGrath is joined by two others caught up in the mystery that surround Cordova and the threesome attempt to unravel the enigma that is Cordova. Pessl delivers some of the best opening pages I have read in a while. It is dramatic, thrilling and easy to visualise. As each page continues, I became completely caught up in the world of Cordova, so much so that I found it hard to believe I was reading fiction.
Helping to pull me into the world Pessl has created is the additional multimedia features accessed through a smart phone. By hovering over icons within the pages of the book, the reader can view footage, listen to audio and view various documents that McGrath has access to throughout his investigation.
Night Film is simply brilliant and I will be recommending it for years to come. It will be enjoyed not only by those who enjoy a great mystery, but by those who appreciate great storytelling.