A ‘Midnight Taxi’ Journey Through London’s Underbelly

Midnight Taxi, a gripping new thriller from writer-director duo Bertie and Samantha Speirs, is set to hit VOD and digital platforms on Tuesday, 23 July 2024. The film stars Ladi Emeruwa, Charlotte Price, and Eddie Eyre, and promises a chilling dive into London’s seedy underworld.

The film centres on Eddie Carter (played by Emeruwa), a Black Cab driver whose nocturnal routines are disrupted by a murder that plunges him into a world of fear and uncertainty. When Eddie’s daytime sleep is disturbed by relentless construction noise, he begins to rely heavily on coffee to stay alert during his night shifts. One night, after pulling over for a rest, Eddie wakes up to a horrifying sight: a murdered woman’s body lying ahead of his cab.

Haunted by the discovery and increasingly disturbed by his fatigue, Eddie’s nights grow more terrifying. He starts to sleepwalk again—a condition from his childhood—raising the chilling possibility that he might be involved in the murder. Determined to clear his name and conscience, Eddie embarks on his own investigation. With the help of investigative journalist Adam Blomfield (Eddie Eyre) and high-end escort Karli (Charlotte Price), Eddie delves into the dark heart of London’s sex industry.

The filmmakers, Bertie and Samantha Speirs, utilised guerrilla filmmaking techniques during the pandemic lockdowns to capture the raw and authentic feel of London at night. This included shooting in iconic locations such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and Abbey Road. The production made extensive use of a licensed black cab and filmed all driving sequences with actor Ladi Emeruwa behind the wheel, ensuring authenticity. The multi-cam setup, with up to four cameras and eight microphones, allowed for seamless and immersive driving scenes.

The cast of Midnight Taxi brings a wealth of experience and talent. Ladi Emeruwa, known for his role in Berlin Station and the final season of Shetland, delivers a compelling performance as Eddie Carter. Charlotte Price, a seasoned stage actor, plays Rachel, while Eddie Eyre, recognised for his role in Game of Thrones and EastEnders, portrays Adam Blomfield.

The film’s score, composed by Jake Bradford-Sharp, enhances the tense and atmospheric narrative. The Speirs brothers collaborated closely with Bradford-Sharp to create a soundscape that elevates the film’s mood and complements its dark themes.

Midnight Taxi is not just a thriller; it’s a deep exploration of isolation, paranoia, and the hidden darkness within a bustling city. As Eddie navigates the labyrinth of London’s underworld, viewers are taken on a tense and unpredictable journey. The film’s combination of gripping storytelling, atmospheric cinematography, and authentic performances makes it a potentially exciting release in this year’s cinematic horror/thriller offerings.

Midnight Taxi trailer