Starring Eddie Marsan, Martin Compston, Gemma Arterton
Directed by J. Blakeson
98 minutes
Opens August 13, 2010
*** stars out of five
Two cons (Eddie Marsan and Martin Compston), kidnap the daughter (Gemma Arterton) of a well-to-do family. The straight forward ransom scheme begins to quickly unravel due to a web of lies and double-crossings during the negotiations for a large “pay out.”
Why See It?
The Disappearance of Alice Creed is a riveting rollercoaster ride not for the sensitive and squeamish. Most of the film is staged in a gritty two-bedroom apartment – a bleak and fitting backdrop for such a horrendous crime. What makes this tense thriller gel are the endless power struggles between the three main characters.
Marsan slam dunks his role as the fearsome and despicable “top dog” behind the operation. Compston is brilliant playing the desperate side-kick while he keeps the audience guessing which side of the fence his loyalties fall. Last but not least, Arterton is compelling in her role as the terrorized victim.
With its unpredictable plot and intense characters The Disappearance of Alice Creed creates a disturbing film viewing experience.