Abraham Adeyemi’s new short film, Chasing The Night, is a stylish romantic drama that explores the complexities of connection and conversation. Supported by Film4, this 15-minute gem features Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Gangs of London, His House) and Deborah Ayorinde (Riches, Them) as Leon and Fatimah, two successful Black Brits who, after a pop-up restaurant date in South London, find themselves drifting through the city in a bid to prolong their evening.
From the moment they hop into a taxi, Chasing The Night immerses us in the vibrant London nightlife, with each location offering a new slice of the city’s charm. The cinematography is sleek, capturing neon-lit streets and intimate corners that reflect both the excitement and hesitation of its characters. Adeyemi’s direction deftly balances quiet tension and playful spontaneity, keeping the pacing tight while still allowing enough space for subtle emotional beats.
One of the film’s biggest strengths is the palpable chemistry between Dìrísù and Ayorinde. Their dialogue and interactions are charged with what is said—and, crucially, what remains unspoken. You sense there is a weight on their minds, a conversation they’re both avoiding and Adeyemi carefully unravels these layers as the film heads toward its final act. The result is a sense of authenticity that resonates long after the credits roll.
Chasing The Night premiered on the festival circuit throughout 2024, garnering awards at S.O.U.L. Fest at the BFI and qualifying for both BAFTA and BIFA. Its official online release is set for February 25th on both Omeleto’s YouTube channel and Vimeo via Short of the Week, following in the footsteps of Adeyemi’s award-winning debut short No More Wings.
With its sharp visuals, standout performances, and a well-crafted narrative, Chasing The Night provides a compelling snapshot of London’s after-dark energy—and the unspoken truths we carry into the night. Whether this is just the beginning for Leon and Fatimah remains to be seen, but fans will surely be hoping for a longer exploration of their story in a feature-length follow-up.
