Netflix is about to add ‘deliciously dark’ thriller starring acting legend Ian McKellen

A British period drama ‘with a twist’ will be added to Netflix in the coming days.

First released in cinemas three years ago, The Critic was based on the 2015 novel Curtain Call by Anthony Quinn.

Directed by Anand Tucker it starred Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton, Mark Strong, Ben Barnes, Alfred Enoch, Romola Garai, and Lesley Manville.

The synopsis teased of the film: ‘When the most feared and vicious theatre critic in town Jimmy Erskine (McKellen), finds himself suddenly in the crosshairs of the Daily Chronicle’s new owner David Brooke (Strong), he strikes a sinister Faustian pact with struggling actress Nina Land (Arterton) who is desperate to win his favour.’
Although the film divided critics, those who praised it also singled out McKellan’s performance as a stand-out reason to tune in.

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‘McKellen, who relishes another devious character to sink his teeth into, devouring every scene, a deliciously caustic turn that will provide him with nothing but the finest notices,’ The Guardian wrote in its review.

‘Despite his character being deeply egotistical and rather vile at points, Ian McKellen wields his natural born charisma to debaucherous effect here, winning you over regardless,’ Digital Spy added.

‘An incredible performance by Ian McKellen elevates this crime drama as it veers into melodrama,’ user Farah wrote.

‘Ian McKellen is amazing.

He keeps getting better, and he is captivating and horrifying in this soapy, scheming tale of London’s depression era world of theatre and newspapers,’ DJA posted.

‘Sir Ian McKellen delivers an exceptional performance, stepping into a refreshingly unexpected role as a ruthless, sharp-tongued antagonist,’ Penelope added.

This week, the film will also be released on Netflix, where it will be available to stream from Thursday.

Throughout his decades-long career, McKellen has won a Tony Award, six Laurence Olivier Awards, an Actor Award and a Golden Globe Award, in addition to nominations for two Academy Awards, five Baftas and five Emmy Awards.

His most notable screen roles have come in films including Richard III, Magneto in the X-Men films and Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

However, last week was one of a string of stars to come under fire from Succession star Brian Cox, who fired off a list of actors he didn’t like during a recent interview.

During an interview with The Times, he declared: ‘Edward Norton?

A pain in the a**e.

Kevin Spacey?

A stupid, stupid man.

Sir Ian’s acting?

Not to my taste.’
His comments come despite the fact the pair have worked together numerous times, most notably on a Royal National Theatre production of King Lear.

During the chat Cox, 79, went on to explain that he’s too old to worry about offending anyone.

‘My wife keeps saying, “Brian, be careful.

Brian, be careful”,’ he explained.

‘I think, “F***k it, I don’t want to be careful anymore!

I’ll be 80 this year.

F**k it!

I’m gonna say what I want to say”.’
The Critic is streaming from Thursday on Netflix.
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