Trance

Danny Boyle's best films possess an exhilarating sense of forward momentum, and Trance is a perfect fit for the director's talents as it moves swiftly through a twist-laden story that might just collapse if we take the time to scrutinise. Boyle doesn't give us that opportunity; the screenplay (by Joe Ahearne and John Hodge) keeps us gripped by consistently taking unexpected left-turns.

Trance begins as a straightforward thriller with a smart gimmick: an auctioneer (McAvoy) misplaces a valuable painting that a violent thief (Cassel) has stolen, and he is forced into hypnotherapy sessions with a shrink (Dawson) to unlock his broken memory. Within half an hour, however, the film has begun to develop into something completely different.

The power dynamic between the trio shifts dramatically and we're forced to reconsider where our sympathies lie. Boyle and cinematographer shoot the film with their customary energy and vibrancy, and the three leads are on excellent form. It's hard to say how well Trance will live in the memory, but it's a great ride while it lasts. [Philip Concannon]