The Messenger

Film Review by George Sully | 25 Aug 2015
Film title: The Messenger
Director: David Blair
Starring: Robert Sheehan, Lily Cole, Tamzin Merchant, David O'Hara
Release date: 18 Sep
Certificate: 15

Though pitched as a supernatural thriller, The Messenger dwells more on its protagonist’s own troubled life than the conspiracy he uncovers, but that’s more of a correction than a criticism. Don’t expect pacy thrills; the plot – prominent journalist’s mysterious death sparks media intrigue, yada yada – serves as an effective vehicle for Robert Sheehan’s smartly imagined Jack and his burdensome ability to speak with the deceased.

Unlike 2010’s Biutiful, where Javier Bardem’s similar gift takes a back seat, Sheehan’s grubby, snarky Jack is plagued nigh-on constantly by anxious ghosts eager to pass on a final message, thus providing the BAFTA-nominated Misfits star plenty of opportunities for well-aimed backchat and deadpan repartee. Flashbacks substantiate some pathos, and intermittent snatches of conversation provide further insight into his condition. The story unravels predictably enough, and the supporting cast keep the wheels turning (David O’Hara as the sturdy, antagonising policeman; Lily Cole as the concerned but dispossessed older sis), but the message you'll be most keen to spread after The Messenger's credits roll will be about its dynamic lead performance.


Released by Metrodome