Films > Film Reviews

Our Kind Of Traitor

26/05/16

This film adaptation takes John le Carre’s novel, transferring it to the big screen with enjoyable thrills, questions and definite stellar performances. It may not be 100% gripping or perfect but it’s well made.

Whilst dealing with their relationship on a holiday in Morocco, Perry (Ewan McGregor) and Gail (Naomie Harris) have a chance meeting with Dima (Stellan Skarsgard). He’s in the Mafia but fears for his life and that of his family. Dima entrusts Perry with some information to hand to MI6 man Hector (Damian Lewis).

First of all, I have to comment on the look of the film - the way it’s shot and directed works well. There’s a blue tone to the film and frequent mirrored fractures of faces creates that dodgy spy world, as if the blur of trust is leaking out to the way the movie is filmed.

This film by Susanna White captures the spy genre very well. That mystery of government and human interaction, questionning who to trust, death and danger all come together in a solid blend to make this a suspenseful watch, on the most part. I must admit that at one point, as they venture to a safe house, the movie begins to lag and the tension disappears. Also, the movie could have dealt with the delicate nature of involving an everyman in something so big in a more convincing way.

Marcelo Zarvos’ score is a big highlight; the Brazilian composer builds a rostra of music that compliments the tension of the narrative. It’s a perfect pitch that immerses us in this glossy feature. The plot may not always be outstanding, it has a somewhat generic feel but with the acting, music and cinematography you can’t help but mostly get on board with the entire product.

Ewan McGregor plays the average Joe with suitable frowns, worried looks and interchanging cardigans. He is the character we’re meant to get into the film with because he’s like us, an every day normal guy thrown into turmoil, threats and terrific parties ,and on the whole he acts well. Stellan Skarsgard is the selling point, bringing buckets of charisma. Damian Lewis is an actor I love watching, there’s something about the careful yet carefree way he delivers lines that makes his characters come alive. Naomie Harris does more of worth than the trailer makes you think and gives another side of the normal eye.

Our Kind of Traitor isn’t an out and out thriller to remember but it certainly looks good and is backed by superb acting and fine tension.

7/10