12 Hour Shift

12 Hour Shift (2020) poster

12 Hour Shift is a 2020 American black comedy thriller film written and directed by Brea Grant. The film stars Angela Bettis, Nikki Cox, and Kit Williamson, among others, and is set in 1999. It revolves around a group of nurses who are involved in an organ-harvesting scheme that goes terribly wrong over the course of one night. The film combines elements of dark humor with suspenseful thriller aspects, creating a unique narrative that explores themes of desperation, morality, and survival.

Plot

The story is set in an Arkansas hospital during a 12-hour shift. Angela Bettis plays Mandy, a drug-addicted nurse who becomes involved in an illegal organ-trading scheme to support her habit. The operation is run by her cousin Regina, played by Nikki Cox, who is responsible for finding buyers and ensuring the harvested organs are delivered. The night takes a chaotic turn when a kidney meant for delivery goes missing, leading to a series of increasingly desperate and violent attempts to procure a replacement organ. As the night progresses, Mandy must navigate the challenges posed by suspicious coworkers, the arrival of dangerous criminals, and her own moral compass.

Cast

• Angela Bettis as Mandy
• Nikki Cox as Regina
• Kit Williamson as Officer Myers
• David Arquette as Jefferson
• Chloe Farnworth as Karen
• Mick Foley as Nicholas

Production

The film was announced in 2019, with Brea Grant both writing and directing. Filming took place in Arkansas, capturing the eerie and isolated atmosphere of a small-town hospital. The setting in 1999 also adds a layer of nostalgia and removes the possibility of modern technology solving the film's central conflict.

Reception

12 Hour Shift received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised its unique blend of genres and Bettis's performance. However, some criticized the film for its tonal inconsistencies and the believability of its plot. Despite this, it has been celebrated for its originality and Grant's direction.

Themes

The film explores several themes, including the lengths people will go to survive, the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in desperate situations, and the impact of addiction. It also comments on the healthcare system and the exploitation of medical professionals and patients alike.

See Also

• Black comedy
• Thriller film
• Organ trafficking
• Addiction