A Most Violent Year

A Most Violent Year follows the lives of Abel (Isaac) and Anna (Chastain) as they struggle to ensure the safety of their oil business against the backdrop of New York City in 1981, one of the most violent years recorded in the city's history. Before long, they become embroiled in a web of dangerous scheming and tragedy.

The soundtrack by Alex Ebert is stellar and the cinematography is a real triumph; look out for one extended chase sequence! One of the most impressive things about the movie, however, is the fact that moments of extreme action are deployed sparingly, and yet it never feels like it's dragging its heels. The world is constructed so well with characters of real interest; this is a crime drama dominated by relatable people rather than spectacle.

Indeed, the film is certainly one to watch for the two lead performances. Prior to his starring role in the new Star Wars film this December, this is the perfect chance to see Isaac command the screen in a leading role. It's a subtle performance, but one that is all the more powerful for it. Throughout, Isaac often plays moments of confrontation as relatively muted, but this means that at the points when he finally loses control, there is a real visceral effect. Chastain, as always, is on fine form here; with her couture high fashion and New York accent, she is reminiscent of Michelle Pfeiffer's Elvira Hancock in Scarface. What refreshingly sets her apart from the conventional role of 'moll' is the active role she takes within her husband's dealings. Chastain is a powerhouse of screen presence whatever she appears in, and here she exudes an air of authority which allows her character to appear equally as, if not more, ruthless than her husband when it comes to business. A special mention must go to Elyes Gabel who provides a tragic depth to the character of Julian, an employee of the company who is dragged into the violence (he's certainly come a long way from playing one of Daenerys's bloodriders on Game of Thrones!).

If you like your crime dramas intellectual and grounded in character, this is one for you!

Callum McManus