The classic noir thriller, based on the original novel and 1944 film, brings an impressive adaptation to the New Theatre stage. It has everything you need to keep you on the edge of your seat throughout, intrigue, plotting, mystery and, of course, murder. The classic novel by James M. Cain is cleverly adapted for the stage by Tom Holloway, with direction by Oscar Toeman.

It could prove quite tricky to bring this to the stage, but the use of Walter Huff, breaking the fourth wall is a clever adaptation that mirrors but doesn’t exactly duplicate his use of the Dictaphone in the original movie of 1944. I really enjoyed how the audience were completely and utterly drawn into his plotting by using this device, making us question ourselves as well as him. It also made him truly likeable, in spite of his heinous acts and made it all the harder to see him as a villain at all; again, making an interesting internal reflection for audience members.

I thought the play perfectly captured the classic genre of noir thriller. The acting really aligned with those classic movies of old, naturalistic but sizzling with passion, fire burning just beneath the subtle side glances, the slight movements towards one another and the chemistry between characters, especially our two leads. This is perfectly balanced by some cleverly intertwined moments of comedy, especially from Keyes, portrayed by Martin Marquez. This broke the inevitable tension well; the comedy delivered with dead pan and with impeccable timing.

The whole cast are excellent; Mishca Barton of The O.C. fame portrays the femme fatale herself, Phyllis and it’s hard to believe that this is her stage debut. She excels in the role, malevolent but irresistibly likeable too. Opposite her is Ciaran Owens as our confessor, Walter Huff. His ability to make you like him, despite his misdeeds, is brilliant; he is almost the tragic hero of the piece, even though we know his flaws. The
relationship with Phyllis sizzles with passion and we are immediately drawn along for the ride with them
both.

The cast is also made up of Gillian Saker as Nettie, who is really believable as the put upon secretary of Walter. Joseph Langdon multi roles with ease as Mr Norton, Nino and Joe Pete, bringing great physicality and voices to each role to immediately mark them as distinct. Another masterclass in multi roles and
changing of physicality is Oliver Ryan as Mr Nirdlinger, Jack Christholf and Jackson. Finally, Sophia Roberts as Lola is charming and brings a childlike innocence, yet knowingness to the role.

This is a thoroughly enjoyable production; it rattles along at a great pace that keeps you guessing at every turn and, as someone who has not seen the film, or read the book, the twists had me gripped throughout. This is testament to the exceptional team of actors who bring this to life, which perfectly captures the essence of the noir thriller whilst breathing new life into the piece. If in doubt, double down, grab a ticket and enjoy a thrilling evening which will leave you wanting more.