This “stylish” British thriller with “edge-of-your-seat suspense” is on TV tonight

Tonight, you can catch “The Two Faces of January,” a captivating British thriller featuring Viggo Mortensen and Oscar Isaac on your TV screen.

The 2014 movie, adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s 1964 novel, chronicles the journey of Chester MacFarland, portrayed by Mortensen, and his wife Colette, played by Kirsten Dunst, as they vacation in Greece. However, their idyllic trip takes a dark turn when Chester unintentionally kills a man, forcing them to go on the run together.

In what appeared to be a dead end, the pair found themselves helped by enigmatic figure Rydal Keener (Isaac), who assisted them in evading capture. However, a tense game of hide-and-seek developed as they all grew suspicious of one another due to their mutual distrust.

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A UK-France collaboration, the thriller didn’t receive a significant box office response upon its release, earning just $4.5 million. However, viewers can catch the movie tonight at 11pm on BBC Two.

Despite not earning significant revenue at the box office, “The Two Faces of January” was widely praised by critics, boasting an impressive 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 123 reviews.

In our critique of the movie, we described it as a “tense, gripping storyline” that offered a “welcoming change from today’s usual fare”, acknowledging Isaac’s powerful performance as the main character. We also commended writer-director Hossein Amini for masterfully controlling both the tempo and atmosphere of the film.

The film was praised by Empire Magazine as a highly impressive directorial debut for a skilled, intelligent screenwriter, offering top-notch character development and heart-pounding suspense. Meanwhile, The Minnesota Star Tribune described it as stylishly executed.

The Philadelphia Inquirer likewise expressed admiration, stating: “All aspects of ‘The Two Faces of January’ are well-executed, even as the story unfolds – a tranquil Greek vacation for a couple, an engaging American’s foreign escapades – take a disastrous turn.

In the opinion of RogerEbert.com, Mortensen delivers one of his finest performances, and The Two Faces of January is a stunningly crafted throwback film. According to The Times, it’s a well-polished and chilling thriller.

As a lover of thrillers, if your preferences align and you’re fortunate enough to have a Sky Cinema, NOW, or Paramount+ subscription, you might just strike gold! Today, the critically-acclaimed real-life thriller September 5 has been added to these streaming platforms.

The Two Faces of January airs on BBC Two at 11pm.

The latest print issue from Digital Spy is available now! You can purchase the “Oasis – Live in ’25” edition at newsstands or online for only £8.99.

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2025-08-08 09:48