'A Night Like This': New Gay Romance Illuminates London with Authenticity and Vulnerability

In a cinematic landscape often populated by formulaic romantic comedies and coming-out narratives, the British film 'A Night Like This' emerges as a distinct entry, promising viewers an experience rooted in emotional honesty and the unpredictable rhythms of urban life. With its screenings last spring at the BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, the film quickly captured attention—not only for its setting and star power, but for its refreshing deviation from genre conventions

'A Night Like This' follows Oliver and Lukas, two men who cross paths in contemporary London. Their journey unfolds over the course of a single, electric night—one that is neither preordained nor obviously destined for fairy-tale romance. Instead, the film focuses on the small, vulnerable moments between strangers who, despite their differences, find themselves drawn together by curiosity and longing .

Alexander Lincoln, celebrated for his role in the 2022 film "In From the Side," takes on the role of Oliver, imbuing his character with both bravado and underlying depth. Jack Brett Anderson stars opposite him as Lukas—a character marked by introspection and quiet tension. Their chemistry is a standout element, bringing authenticity and emotional resonance to the screen

One of the most notable aspects of "A Night Like This" is its intentional move away from traditional queer film narratives. Said Lincoln, “What’s nice and different about this film is that it doesn’t fit into that queer sphere, in a sense that it’s not all about that. It’s about connections and lust” .

This approach is echoed by Anderson, who emphasized themes of risk-taking and emotional openness: “Take a risk! Have those conversations—especially if you’re feeling like there’s no hope. Don’t be afraid to say yes, even if you’re the most uncomfortable you’ve ever been. You can learn a lot from strangers. When it seems like it’s the end, it’s not” .

Rather than centering on trauma or coming out, the film leans into the everyday complexities of queer lives—a direction that resonates with critics and festival audiences alike. As one festival attendee remarked, “Go and see this impressive little film for great acting, and great scenes around London” .

At BFI Flare, 'A Night Like This' was met with a blend of enthusiasm and thoughtful critique. Reviewers praised the performances of Lincoln and Anderson, noting their dynamic interplay and the film’s textured depiction of London’s nightlife. Scott McCutcheon wrote, “As the boisterous Oliver, Alexander Lincoln conveys his character’s bravado with gusto, while Jack Brett Anderson captures Lukas’ angst with economic precision”

The film’s deliberate avoidance of glossy, idealized romance in favor of a “raw, lived-in experience” has been widely acknowledged as a strength. Critics from outlets including Gay Times and Loud and Clear Reviews have highlighted how the movie’s visual language—neon-lit streets, quiet corners, and spontaneous encounters—mirrors the emotional journeys of its protagonists

For queer viewers, 'A Night Like This' offers more than entertainment—it provides representation that is complex, subtle, and real. The film’s focus on late-night wanderings, awkward conversations, and moments of courage speaks to a broad spectrum of queer experiences.

This approach aligns with a growing demand for media that reflects the full diversity of queer lives. Rather than relying on stereotypes or limiting characters to their sexuality, the film allows Oliver and Lukas to exist as multi-dimensional individuals whose queerness is integral but not defining in a reductive way .

The timing of the release is significant, too: as queer cinema continues to mature, audiences are increasingly seeking out stories that celebrate the ordinary as well as the extraordinary. 'A Night Like This' joins the ranks of films that push the boundaries of what queer narratives can be, emphasizing the power of connection, self-discovery, and hope.

Set for a theatrical release on September 26, 2025, 'A Night Like This' is poised to reach a wide audience in the UK and internationally. The trailer alone has generated considerable excitement, with viewers eager to see how the film’s nuanced take on romance and identity will land with broader audiences .