Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this is a smart and intimate spy thriller – yet somehow a little bit lacking in action.
There is no denying the sharpness of the script and effectiveness of Steven Soderbergh’s latest film which will keep you guessing right to the very end of the 90 minute odd running time.
Written by David Koepp, the film follows that of British intelligence officer George who is given a week by his superior Meacham to investigate the leak of of a top-secret software program code-named Severus. There are many suspects as to who orchestrated the leak including imagery specialist Clarissa, her boyfriend and managing agent Freddie, agency psychiatrist Zoe, and her boyfriend and managing agent James – as well as George’s own wife Kathryn who is also an intelligence officer. To say much more about the plot would be a spoiler as there are plenty of twists and turns along the way as motivations are uncovered.
From the very first intense dinner party held at George’s home (which highlights how the various relationships are particularly fractious) all the way through to the final confrontation, it is a very smart and well written thriller film. This being said, for those expecting plenty of action will be slightly disappointed as there is a reliance to sit up and pay attention to every conversation between each character in order to try and figure out who is responsible – and some of the conversations do get a little bit convoluted.
The whole film has been shot fabulously, the camerawork sharp and focused, while the costumes add a touch of glamour and luxury to proceedings. But equally, thanks to the way in which the film has been edited each of the characters have equal opportunity to shine.
It has to be said that the film has been impeccably cast. At the centre Michael Fassbender as the inscrutable George using every skill he has to try and uncover the truth, Cate Blanchett as the cool and collected Kathryn – both have a wonderful chemistry together as the dynamics of their relationship shifts and changes with every new revelation – it is mesmerising to watch them both.
Elsewhere, Regé-Jean Page, Marisa Abela, Tom Burke, Naomie Harris, Regé-Jean Page all provide great depth to the characters that makes clear their characters flaws but still leave you second guessing about their intentions.
It is a well thought out and pacy film, but it is just too talky in places and just requires a little bit more action to give it more of a punch.
by Emma Clarendon
Black Bag is out in cinemas now.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️