Critic, The

Critic, The

Set against the backdrop of 1935 pre-WWII England, this gripping tale of ambition and deceit is set in the ruthless theatre world. Featuring an all-star ensemble including Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton, Lesley Manville and Mark Strong, The Critic follows an aging, not-so-closeted theatre critic (McKellan) as he faces off against the new editor of London's Chronicle (Strong). As fascism looms and societal pressures mount, he becomes ensnared in a web of blackmail and perilous ambition, leading to an explosive confrontation that could cost him everything. Directed by Anand Tucker and adapted by Patrick Marber (Notes on a Scandal) from Anthony Quinn's novel 'Curtain Call,' The Critic is a scintillating drama where passion, power and desperation collide.