Lies We Tell

"Lies We Tell" is an engaging international thriller, featuring a star-studded cast, from director Mitu Misra. Released in 2017, it stars Harvey Keitel, Gabriel Byrne, and Sibylla Deen, among other talents, and paints a complex narrative that intertwines love, betrayal, family obligations, and underworld involvements.

The narrative centers around the character of Donald (played by Gabriel Byrne), a reliable driver, and right-hand man to his billionaire boss, Demi (played by Harvey Keitel). When Demi dies, Donald is entrusted with cleaning up Demi's messes that transcend the strictly legal or moral boundaries. Among these tasks is managing the deceptions of his boss's private life, especially dismissing Demi's young, attractive, and secretive mistress, Amber (played by Sibylla Deen).

Amber is a British-Pakistani woman caught in her own complex web of truth and lies. She has a past that she has concealed from Demi. And now that Demi is dead, she experiences both relief at regaining her freedom and the tension of her secrets eventually coming to light.

Donald and Amber's paths merge, and an unlikely friendship forms as they navigate the dangerous world Demi has left behind. Donald's tenacious character complements Amber's strength and resilience in the face of intimidation and coercion.

"Lies We Tell" juxtaposes the charming, grandiose world of the wealthy elite of London against the more harsh, tight-knit, and traditional South Asian community in the same city. The movie explores the tension between these two communities. Amber's unique background enables the film to delve deep into the challenges she overcomes, especially cultural pressures and societal expectations.

The film also accentuates the generational gaps that exist within immigrants' families. It magnifies the dilemma faced by a woman like Amber, who strives to protect her family while seeking her own identity and freedom. It questions the age-old societal norms and the sacrifices made, highlighting the difficult path of those who dare to defy them.

Gabriel Byrne delivers a captivating performance as Donald. His character's journey and transformation stand as a testament to Byrne's exceptional acting ability. Harvey Keitel appears in a limited role, but his portrayal of the infamous billionaire, Demi, leaves a lingering presence that fuels the narrative long after his character's death. Sibylla Deen shines as Amber. Her portrayal of a resilient woman navigating through an unforgiving world is awe-inspiring.

"Lies We Tell" is notably the first English-language film by Indian-born and UK-based director, Mitu Misra. Misra depicts the gritty realities of urban life and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters with impeccable precision. The intimately shot sequences amplify the emotional intensity of the film, making the characters' struggles and fears palpable. The screenplay, co-written by Ewen Glass and Andy McDermott, cleverly binds the threads of suspense and drama, offering an innovative and intriguing plot.

The cinematography by Santosh Sivan is riveting. There are split-second cutaways and brilliantly shot sequences that add to the movie's aesthetic and emotional quotient. The score by Zbigniew Preisner complements the dramatic narrative and oscillates between the intense, the melancholic, and the darkly contemplative, accurately reflecting the tone of the film.

The movie interestingly combines elements of thriller noir and socio-cultural drama. It wields an intriguing narrative, coupled with strong performances, that makes it a worthwhile cinematic experience. Presenting a chilling depiction of the power dynamics, manipulations, and deceptions that unfold in the shadows of the glossy and glamorous world of billionaires, it holds its grip on the audience till the end.

"Lies We Tell" is a compelling watch for those drawn to international thrillers and dramas. It boldly tackles themes like culture clash, societal oppression, and the ambiguities of human relationships. With a nuanced portrayal of the dichotomies in society and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters thrust into dire circumstances, the movie provides an immersive, strikingly real, and thought-provoking cinematic experience.