Writers: Ian Rankin & Simon Reade
Director: Loveday Ingram
A dinner party isn’t quite John Rebus’ normal environment. Certainly not one in a swanky Edinburgh town house. The newly retired Detective Inspector is here as a plus one to his ‘friend’ lawyer Stephanie Jeffries (Abigail Thaw). Wheeler dealer host Paul Goodwin (Neil McKinven) and his wife Harriet (Teresa Banham) have staged a murder mystery game for the amusement of their guests – maybe not so much amusement for Rebus. The fellow dinner guests include dodgy casino owner Jack Fleming (Billy Hartman) and his young, social media influencer girlfriend Candida Jones (Jade Kennedy).What starts as a game, ends in a real murder.
Having the author of the original source material as one of the writers ensures the essence of the infamous character isn’t lost, he’s merely mellowed slightly here. The surrounding cast of characters too are sufficiently well-drawn, with back stories that give them life. The result of the back-story building is a slower burn first act. The action warms up considerably in the second.
Gray O’Brien is the 21st actor to step into the sturdy shoes of Ian Rankin’s acclaimed detective and he does so admirably, imbuing the old codger with charm and charisma. The supporting cast are of excellent quality, each given their moments to shine. Though O’Brien is in the title role, this is truly an ensemble piece.
A Game Called Malice has less of the hallmarks of a classic Rebus novel and more of the hallmarks of a classic British murder mystery: the action is confined to one room and each guest has secrets yet to be spilled, some darker than others. This is most definitely a more cosy crime version of Rebus than we are used to, but it is a perfect evening’s entertainment for a cold autumn evening.
Runs until 28 September | Image: Nobby Clark
The Reviews Hub Score
A classic British murder mystery
