Magpie: Film Review
I am a huge Daisy Ridley supporter so I was excited to check out her new thriller Magpie, which was written by her husband Tom Bateman based on her original idea.
She plays Annette, who has left her job and home behind to raise two kids in the countryside with her writer husband Ben (Shazad Latif), whose life has barely been affected by parenthood. The existing cracks in their marriage are blown wide open when their daughter Matilda (Hiba Ahmed) is cast in her first film alongside the alluring actress Alicia Romano (Matilda Lutz). Ben insists on being her chaperone every day, leaving Annette at home with their baby Lucas.
My heart broke for Annette, who is struggling, lonely and internally raging at being continually left alone with her children while her husband continues to live his life. She is isolated in the country and wants to be back at work. She craves some company and connection but barely gets that from Ben even when he’s around. They barely communicate anymore and they certainly don’t talk about anything deep and meaningful.
So, of course, Ben’s head is turned by this Italian actress, who is sexy, kind and good with his daughter and is in need of support following a public scandal. Why wouldn’t he choose this captivating woman over the angry, depressed wife at home?! Ben is incredibly selfish and seems blissfully unaware that he’s partly responsible for making Annette like that. Can you tell that I couldn’t stand him?!
Magpie isn’t much of a thriller but more of a gripping marital drama. Admittedly, there is a thrilling twist in the final act but I guessed that revelation a while beforehand so that took away its punch, even though it’s executed well. Ridley excels in this quiet, internalised role. Annette pretends everything is fine but you know she’s barely keeping a lid on her anger.
Magpie is a compelling watch with interesting yet frustrating character dynamics. Even if you guess it in advance, the payoff is extremely satisfying.
Available on UK and Ireland digital platforms on Monday 11th November