It’s a heady brew of symbolism, which contrasts with idyllic memories and fantasies signposted by the texture of a home-movie style; colourists are the industry’s unsung heroes for the way they make a film look, and here Dirk Meier has excelled.

His excellent cast helps keep the tale engrossing.

The payoff feels somewhat slight, but the foreplay — the will-they-or-won’t-they and the will-he-find-out — builds up with energy and flare.

Just like the best classic noirs, Motel Destino is about how easily a hot person can coax you into completely upending your life. It's not an ideal erotic thriller, but it’s actually both hot and compelling, and that might just be enough these days.