Redford may not be a master of brevity, but he is a master of the page-to-screen adaptation. Here he handles a plot intricate as clockwork, following reporter Ben’s (LeBeouf) investigation to create a narrative that grips tight as a vice, at least until it loses sight of this through-line in the baggy final act.

Though Sorkinesque at best, the screenplay occasionally features bumbling exposition, and falls short of incisive discussion of the characters’ morality. However, the swarm of talented and well-cast actors could prop up a far inferior film. As it stands, this is thoroughly deserving of a UK release.

An exciting chase thriller with unusual emotional depth – in part thanks to Cliff Martinez’ mournful score – The Company You Keep proffers interesting commentary on the sacrifices men will make for women they love.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Robert Redford, Shia LaBeouf, Julie Christie, Susan Sarandon, Nick Nolte, Chris Cooper, Terrence Howard, Stanley Tucci, Richard Jenkins, Anna Kendrick, Brendan Gleeson, Brit Marling, Sam Elliot

DIRECTOR: Robert Redford

WRITER: Lem Dobbs (screenplay), Neil Gordon (novel)

SYNOPSIS: Thanks to a persistent journalist, the FBI close in on a group of fugitive radicals wanted for violent protests which took place more than 30 years ago.