Preparing an undercover sting to entrap corrupt tycoon Ivan Rostrovski (Tim Roth), spy Gregory Lioubov (Jean Dujardin) sets wheels in motion. Aided by financial trader Alice (Cecile de France), his plans seem to reach fruition. Little does he know of what lies ahead with double-cross and surprises in store. The art of manipulation may be Gregory’s game but he soon comes to realise how it feels to become an unwitting player.
Like most twist-driven thrillers, Möbius keeps you guessing. You’re never quite sure what the characters’ motivations are – making viewing all the more delicious. A blossoming romance between Gregory and Alice adds to the shadowy manoeuvring with the secrets they hold potentially causing their ultimate downfall. Both are seasoned professionals who momentarily let their guards down with unforeseen consequences. Dujardin and de France ensure they convey genuine chemistry and passion during these scenes.
Whilst the plot can be difficult to follow, it never loses its central focus. Thanks to director Eric Rochant, it makes good use of the international life-style in which the characters live. He also wrings much from the locales which aid in conjuring the foreboding atmosphere Möbius needs. Möbius is unafraid in showing the violent existence of its characters with loyalties as fluid as the supposed promises Gregory and Alice are told.
Möbius is a slick film maintaining the intrigue to the end. Its ability to engage viewers stays high as each scene unearths new revelations forever changing the lives of Möbius’ deceptive participants.
Reviewed by Patrick Moore
Rating out of 10: 8
The Alliance Française French Film Festival screens exclusively at the Palace Nova Eastend cinemas from 20 March – 8 April 2014.
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