A detective sits at a blank, institutional table, in a blank, institutional room, interviewing a suspect. It’s a familiar scene, thanks to countless movies and TV shows; this familiarity is exploited to the full in this terrifically tense, taut drama. Almost entirely a two-hander, the naturalistic performances are complemented by the projection of different camera angles behind the actors, offering selective close-ups. It’s a masterful use of juxtaposition, used sparingly to heighten tension and play with the audience’s sympathies. But this is more than just a compelling crime drama: the plot is enhanced by the script’s exploration of power, prejudice and assumption. The whole package is excellent: I swear at one point I didn’t take a breath for ten minutes!

Summerhall, until 27 Aug.
tw rating 5/5 | [Andy Leask]