The Disappearance Of Alice Creed

The Disappearance of Alice Creed has had a small cinema release and has been in and out of the cinemas in a flash. This is a huge shame as it’s a highly enjoyable film and, what with the below mentioned Four Lions, is solid proof that relatively small British films can more than hold their own against some of the dire Hollywood output of recent months. Writer / Director J Blakeson weaves a twisty little tale as two ex-cons kidnap a young woman and hold her to ransom. The film starts off with an ominous tone as we are shown the two kidnappers Viv and Danny (played by Eddie Marsan and Martin Compston, respectively) coldly but coolly going about their business as they fortify an apartment in which the young woman of the title (Gemma Arterton) will be held. Make no mistake, these guys are prepared and mean business. When the actually kidnapping occurs it is, well, a real mean business, as Arterton is subject to a harrowing ordeal. Fair play to Arterton here as she is really put through the wringer as Creed, though not abused, is degraded to an uncomfortable degree. It’s certainly tough to watch and Arterton exactly nails the fear someone would have in such a situation. From there the story unfolds with enough twists to keep you guessing what the dénouement may be without going too over the top (though one plot twist is pretty hard to stomach when you consider the meticulous preparation at the start of film). Blakeson directs with an assured hand, interestingly managing to tell the film from the aspect of all three leads at various points. Everyone comes out of this with a high grade, especially Blakeson and Arterton. With only three characters and minimal sets this could easily be a play. However, play or film, the three main markers that make a success (direction, script and acting) are all present and correct here and though not as taut as it could be, The Disappearance of Alice Creed is still tense and engaging from start to finish.

The OC Film Sting Final Verdict
This has more smarts than suspense, but top turns by all three leads and a clever screenplay make this small film an unexpected treat. Rating: 8/10.