The Critic is a riveting drama-thriller that dives deep into the murky waters of ambition, blackmail, and moral compromise. Sir Ian McKellen stars as Jimmy Erskine, a once-powerful theater critic whose career is jeopardized when his newspaper's ownership changes hands. The new owner, David Brooke (Mark Strong), embodies a more conservative stance, leading to Erskine’s dismissal after a scathing review of actress Nina Land (Gemma Arterton).
Desperate to reclaim his influence, Erskine strikes a bargain with Nina. He promises her a glowing review and a potential career revival in exchange for her help in exposing Brooke’s misdeeds. This dangerous pact sets off a series of manipulative and deadly events, as Erskine’s and Nina’s intertwined fates spiral into chaos.
Cast: Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton, Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, Ben Barnes, Alfred Enoch, Romola Garai, Beau Gadsdon, Claire Skinner, Nikesh Patel
Director(s): Anand Tucker