The Two Faces of January

Drive scriptwriter Hossein Amini makes an admirable directing debut with this expertly produced and atmospheric 1960s-set thriller based on Patricia Highsmith's 1964 novel. Viggo Mortensen plays an American conman on the run, who arrives in Athens with his wife (Kirsten Dunst). After accidentally killing the private detective on his case, Mortensen persuades scam-artist tour guide Oscar Isaac to help cover up the crime and help them flee the country. The Greek and Turkish locations are full of character, the period detail exemplary, the performances all high-calibre with the unfolding plot full of nuance and intrigue, as suspense builds towards a resonant conclusion. True, it shares plenty with The Talented Mr Ripley - sun, superb scenery and sexual tension - but it's also an enticing, intelligent and well-crafted minor gem in its own right.