Leni Hughes is quickly establishing herself among the rising talents redefining indie filmmaking, bringing noir-inspired drama to the forefront with a sense of fascination and depth. Real Faces is a stylish throwback to the late-night dramas of the ’90s, following a woman navigating an unfulfilling and demanding career. The film’s beauty lies in its quiet intimacy and the captivating characters that make it an undeniable watch for fans of deeply bonded friendships and the emotional whirlwinds that shape us.
As a horror fan, I’ve found myself drawn to these understated dramas because they offer a different perspective on characters’ internal struggles—sometimes more haunting than any supernatural threat. For Julia, played by the mesmerizing Leonie Buysse, the world of fashion and high-end cosmetics offers excitement, but at the ground level, it’s anything but glamorous. Her boss is a tyrant, and her assignments seem harmless at first—until she begins to question the true nature of the industry. As Julia wrestles with her conscience, the audience feels every moment of her moral dilemma, making Real Faces an engaging and thought-provoking experience.
Adding to the film’s dynamic is her flatmate, Elliot, played by the equally fantastic Gorges Ocloo. Their odd-couple chemistry brings a refreshing depth to the story. While their relationship is seemingly platonic, the reality of close proximity and emotional entanglement creates natural tension. Real Faces isn’t a love story in the traditional sense, but rather a film that reminds us to embrace our passions and recognize our worth.
Life is too short to spend it staring out of windows, and Hughes drives that message home repeatedly. The film questions whether industries like fashion and cosmetics shape trends or merely follow them, while also exploring the fragile balance between ambition and self-respect. Would Julia and Elliot have found their way without each other? Or would they have simply faded into the background, lost in the grind of an indifferent world? Real Faces doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does provide a compelling glimpse into the lives of two souls searching for something more.
Rating 3/5
Real Faces
Directed by Leni Hughes
Written by Leni Hughes and Vincent Vanneste
Starring Leonie Buysse, Gorges Ocloo, Yoann Blanc and Karlijn Sileghem
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