An Inspector Calls

Set in 1912, An Inspector Calls, is a thrilling British television drama film released in 2015, directed by Aisling Walsh and written by Helen Edmundson, based on an original 1945 play of the same name by J.B Priestley. Star-studded with popular names such as Sophie Rundle, Lucy Chappell, Miranda Richardson, David Thewlis and Ken Stott - the film has a gripping storyline filled with mystery, intrigue and a clear reflection of societal issues of class and responsibility.

The film begins with a comfortable, upper middle-class family - the Birlings, consisting of Arthur Birling (Ken Stott), his wife Sybil (Miranda Richardson), son Eric (Kyle Soller) and daughter Shelia (Lucy Chapell) - enjoying a celebratory dinner in honour of their daughter's engagement to Gerald Croft (Tom Ward), the heir of a prosperous manufacturing company.

This picturesque setting is disrupted when Inspector Goole (David Thewlis) barges into the celebration uninvited, bearing news of a young working-class woman named Eva Smith's (Sophie Rundle) suicide. Eva has ingested disinfectant, resulting in a slow and painful death. However, what looks like a simple police inquiry quickly turns into an intense interrogation disrupting the celebratory mood and leading to an unraveling of distressing secrets held by each member of the Birling family, and their connection to the deceased woman.

Inspector Goole's character is seen maintaining a calm yet haunting demeanor, studying the characters' reactions as he brings their consciences into the spotlight. David Thewlis is brilliant in his representation of the character - a balance of humility and eeriness. His relentless pursuit for truth and justice forces the Birlings to face their complicity in Eva Smith's path to despair, while also bringing out the wicked realities of class, power and privilege.

Meanwhile, Eva Smith, played by Sophie Rundle, takes the stage only in reminiscence. Rundle's performance is intense and emotional as she portrays a woman trapped in the cruel disparities of society, a pawn in the hands of the Birlings for their personal whims. Her sad, ghostly presence persistently looms throughout the reels of the narrative turning the film into a "whodunnit" ensemble drama.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Birling family represents the privileged elite of early 20th century Britain. Their initial disbelief, followed by reluctant confessions, shock and horror, perfectly portray the classist perspectives ingrained in them. Shelia Birling, played by Lucy Chappell, significantly stands out in her transformation from being naive and superficial to a woman recognizing her own role in the tragedy and demanding responsibility from her family.

Miranda Richardson brilliantly embodies the stern matriarch Sybil Birling, who initially shows a formulated concern for the victim but remains unwavering in her stand to defend her family’s reputation.

The interactions between the characters subsequently uncover the societal themes and criticisms that Priestley had originally intended to present, coupled with Walsh's extraordinary storytelling abilities, effectively keeping the viewer engaged in the narrative. The film not only serves as an interesting detective drama but also stimulates reflection on societal norms and our individual responsibilities towards each other.

Shot amid a visually captivating setting, the film keeps the essence of the play intact, blending a beautiful period-piece backdrop with tense, suspense-filled drama. The story, unfolding with powerful emotional moments and shocking revelations, will keep you on the edge of your seat till the last moment.

In conclusion, An Inspector Calls is not just a conventional murder mystery. It's an exploration of societal norms, self-realization and a piercing commentary on society’s responsibility towards its more vulnerable members. More importantly, it’s a chilling reminder of how our seemingly insignificant actions can have devastating effects on others' lives. With its gripping plot, formidable performances by the cast and great character writing, the film is a compelling watch.