David Morrissey and John Simm in State of Play (2003)

The mystery surrounding the death of a prominent politician’s research assistant fill the obsessions of the characters in this British thriller. None are more vested in the search for truth than reporter Cal McCaffrey (John Simm). Pushed on by both professional and personal compulsions, Cal zealously delves into the lives that Sonia (Shauna Macdonald) touched before she died.

Mysterious deaths of citizens do not usually inspire full-scale investigations by newspapers, but Sonia had the dubious fortune of being in employment under prominent politician Stephen Collins (David Morrissey). Smelling scandal and conspiracy, Cal and his colleagues dig for clues to the young assistant’s untimely demise.

In the superficial world of politics and media the landscape isn’t all glitz and gloss. Beneath the genial exteriors there lie double-dealings, unsavoury characters, shady situations and cut-throat ruthlessness. There’s no doubt the seasoned cast members are fully capable of bringing this sort of material to life. The camerawork is fast-paced and slick, generating a sense of urgency that heightens the moody atmosphere.

Bill Nighy, as experienced editor Cameron Foster, brings his usual sleazy charm, imbuing his character with a pervading callousness that is perpetually menacing. Simm is respectable as the brooding journalist, but it is Kelly MacDonald as fellow reporter Della who really captivates.

The movie version starring Ben Affleck and Russell Crowe opens later this month.

Minh Nguyen