Magpie

October 25, 2024

MOVIE: MAGPIE

STARRING: DAISY RIDLEY, MATILDA LUTZ, SHAZAD LATIF, HIBA AHMED

DIRECTED BY: SAM YATES

AMovieGuy.com’s RATING: ★★★☆ (3 out of 4)

RATED: R

RUN TIME: 90 MINUTES

In Magpie, the trajectory of the story is clear, and while the big reveal is predictable, the film’s execution is what truly captivates. This film, directed by Sam Yates, begins as a tale of infidelity and gradually evolves into a gripping revenge narrative. Daisy Ridley stars as Annette, a mother and wife grappling with her husband’s secrets. Presented in a noir style, Magpie offers a fresh take on crumbling relationships and the dark depths we traverse in deceiving those we love.

Ridley plays Annette, a writer turned stay-at-home mother, married to Ben (Shazad Latif). Excitement fills their home as their daughter Matilda (Hiba Ahmed) lands a role in a major motion picture. However, the situation grows complicated when Ben becomes entangled with Alicia (Matilda Lutz), a co-star whose life has been marred by tabloid gossip. What begins as innocent flirting escalates, leading to text exchanges that pull Ben away from Annette and their family obligations.

From a narrative perspective, parts of Magpie resemble a stage play, thanks to Tom Bateman’s writing. Ridley’s performance becomes increasingly isolated, immersing us in Annette’s descent into darkness. Yates skillfully distorts our perception, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Scenes of Annette cracking a bathroom mirror and haunting visions of Alicia and Ben illustrate her spiraling mental state, prompting her to consider stalking Ben to uncover the truth. As the story unfolds, it provides a candid exploration of marriage, parenting, monogamy, and the fragility of love.

Ridley’s performance stands out as a highlight. She embodies her character and breaks free from the confines of her Star Wars persona. After taking a significant risk in Sometimes I Think About Dying, where the plot fell short, her work in Magpie alongside her earlier performance in Young Woman and the Sea showcases the promising trajectory of her career.

While the film’s conclusion may not shock audiences—its twists and turns, especially regarding Ben’s affairs and Annette’s response, are expected—it’s undeniably entertaining to witness the drama unfold. This approach is reminiscent of great directors like Alfred Hitchcock or David Fincher’s The Killer from last year; not every film needs a major twist to be engaging. Magpie succeeds as suspenseful mystery theater.

3 STARS

MAGPIE IS PLAYING IN SELECT THEATERS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2024.

Written by: Leo Brady
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