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The Scapegoat

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NR
2012

The Scapegoat is a 2012 British thriller based on the novel written by Daphne du Maurier and directed by Charles Sturridge. The dramatic narrative beautifully unfolds, mixing suspense, drama, and intrigue, and is anchored by the terrific performances of its star-studded cast, notably led by Matthew Rhys, Eileen Atkins, and Anton Lesser.

The chilling story begins with the protagonist, John (Matthew Rhys), a solitary and somewhat dissatisfied teacher of French literature whose life takes an unexpected turn when he meets his doppelganger, Johnny (also played by Matthew Rhys), on a fateful day. Johnny, unlike John, hails from an aristocratic background and is an heir to a decaying English estate. Although they look identical, the men could not be more different in terms of their personalities, prospects, and destinies. The chance encounter sparks off an exciting and disconcerting chain of events.

The movie transitions to the heart of its story when Johnny, tired of his own life, tricks John into swapping places with him. In a plot that is steeped as much in confusion as it is in an unexpected camaraderie, it unfolds with John waking up in Johnny's bed, confronted with the puzzle of living Johnny's life, including his commitments, relationships, and responsibilities.

Johnny's world is complicated, layered, filled with a critical business on the brink of collapse, a mismanaged estate, a frustrated family, and an intricate web of relationships. The entirely unfamiliar circumstances compel John to not just navigate from one situation to the other, but also peel layer after layer off an existence that he's never even dreamed of. In the race against time and his eroding identity, John's journey towards understanding, managing, and eventually transforming Johnny's world forms the crux of the story.

Matthew Rhys leads the film with a standout dual performance, capturing both characters' essence skillfully. The two characters, although they look identical, are drawn as distinctly different individuals, which Rhys manages to portray with ease and consistency. His portrayal is one of the film's most significant strengths, anchoring the drama and keeping the audience intrigued and invested.

Supporting the lead actor, Eileen Atkins and Anton Lesser offer their brilliant performances as part of the aristocratic family that John finds himself enmeshed within. Their measured performances provide a wider perspective of the complex family dynamics, further enriching the narrative.

Charles Sturridge's direction ensures The Scapegoat is an intriguing watch from the start to the end. He has skilfully adapted the novel for the screen, maintaining the suspense and human drama inherent in du Maurier's story. The movie also showcases the beautiful English countryside, the decaying aristocracy, and the changing times of the late 1950s.

The period's authenticity in the costume, set design, and even the behavioural aspects of the characters are commendable, providing a detailed backdrop to the narrative that unfolds. All these elements combine to create a visually rich and intriguing portrayal of post-war England, a time of change, despair, and hope.

The film is a thought-provoking exploration of identity, class, despair, and transformation. The Scapegoat intertwines personal drama with societal changes, drawing the viewer into a world of striking contrasts. It explores how positions of privilege and affluence are not always as enviable as they seem and reveals the struggles that lie behind the façade of grandeur.

Overall, The Scapegoat is an absorbing psychological drama that combines elements of suspense, family intrigue, and personal development. With its superb performances, compelling narrative, and stunning portrayals of the period, the film offers a fascinating insight into a time when Britain was at a precipice of significant sociocultural change, making it a must-watch for fans of period dramas and suspense-filled adaptations.

The Scapegoat is a Mystery, Drama, Adventure movie released in 2012. It has a runtime of 107 min. Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 7.2..

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7.2/10
Director
Charles Sturridge
Stars
Matthew Rhys, Eileen Atkins