Closed Circuit

The basis for this intriguing legal thriller lies in a quirky British law that requires a defendant in high-profile cases to have two lawyers who are forbidden to share classified information with one another. The story begins with a horrific truck explosion—filmed by multiple surveillance cameras—that obliterates London's Borough Market. Soon after, authorities arrest Farroukh Erdogan (Denis Moschitto), who is accused of masterminding the attack. In order to try his case, the court must consider evidence that is deemed so sensitive by MI5 that even the defendant is not permitted to hear or read it. The accused is entitled to two separate lawyers: one to defend him in public court and the other to serve as his Special Advocate in closed hearings. But the counselors cannot communicate with one another. When Erdogan's barrister commits suicide, Martin Rose (Eric Bana) is assigned to defend the alleged bomber. Problem is: Rose previously had an affair with Claudia Simmons-Howe (Rebecca Hall), who is serving as Special Advocate. Instead of removing themselves on ethical grounds, both are eager to investigate and win this case, even as government forces are busily pursuing a speedy conviction. Tautly directed by John Crowley, this timely conspiracy thriller deftly explores the potential for corruption lying at the intersection of ubiquitous technological surveillance and the sanctioned invasion of privacy. Recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette (4 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are bonus DVD, digital, and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a small extras package for this thought-provoking thriller.] (S. Granger)