Magpie

Director: Sam Yates

Writer: Tom Bateman

Magpieoffers a story centred around Anette (Daisy Ridley), a new mother grappling with her strained marriage to Ben, an aloof partner struggling with his own discontent. The film hints at a fresh psychological thriller with a promising premise, though ultimately settles into more conventional territory.

We begin in the marital home, Anette’s husband, Ben (Shazad Latif) is an instantly dislikable character, behaving appallingly to his wife and new baby from the opening moments. His dissatisfaction with his relationship is crystal clear. Such is the toxicity and disconnect, we spend the first act wondering how this pair ever got together in the first place.

When their daughter Tilly is cast in a feature film, Ben comes into contact with a charismatic actress, adding welcome temptation and disruption to his already tense marriage and what follows is a fairly predictable series of events as Ben succumbs to his baser instincts.

Daisy Ridley’s portrayal of Anette is a bright spot in the film. She skilfully captures the complexities of a mother under stress, allowing viewers to feel her inner turmoil, though providing the character with more back story would create deeper connection with her journey. Ben, meanwhile, is portrayed with clear intent but remains one-dimensional. While we ultimately want to see justice served on Ben, there was an opportunity to bring in some redemptive qualities, to add some depth, complexity and greater engagement with him.

The plot’s focus on Tilly’s emerging acting career brings some intrigue. While the film does incorporate thriller elements, the twists and heightened tension often expected in this genre aren’t fully realised, and the pacing lacks the momentum needed to build a truly gripping feeling of suspense.

In the end, Magpie brings the story to a close in a way that satisfies, with Ben ultimately facing his due. A film with good intentions, there is room to further develop the expectations of genre. For audiences seeking fresh insights, unexpected twists or a gripping, gritty thriller, the film may feel conventional, though it’s worth the watch for Ridley’s performance alone.

Magpie is available on UK and Ireland digital platforms 11 November.