Watch Hidden City

Hidden City is a 1987 British film directed by Stephen Poliakoff, starring Charles Dance, Cassie Stuart, and Bill Paterson. The movie is set in the city of London, and it explores the hidden layers of its social and emotional life. It is a mystery-drama-thriller, but at the same time, it is a poetic and philosophical meditation on the nature of identity, memory, and reality.

The story begins with Harry (Charles Dance), a journalist for a gossip magazine, who is assigned to investigate the mysterious death of a young woman named Rebecca (Sara Sugarman). Rebecca was an aspiring actress and the daughter of Leo Blum (Richard E. Grant), a wealthy theater producer. Harry's editor, Giles (Gary Olsen), wants him to dig up some dirt on Leo Blum and his associates, thinking that it might boost the magazine's circulation. However, Harry is not interested in such cheap sensationalism. He is a serious writer who wants to uncover the truth.

As Harry begins to delve deeper into the case, he discovers a complex web of relationships and emotions that surround Rebecca and her family. He meets Rebecca's sister, Bridget (Cassie Stuart), who is a troubled young woman with a history of mental illness. Bridget's doctor, Max (Bill Paterson), is a psychiatrist who seems to be more interested in his patients than in his own personal life. Harry also encounters Leo Blum's business partner, Norman (Jason Isaacs), a slick and ruthless lawyer who has his own hidden agenda.

As Harry tracks down leads and interviews people, he starts to realize that nothing is what it seems in this enchanted and enigmatic city. The city itself becomes a character in the story, as its streets and buildings reveal hidden clues and secrets to Harry. He becomes obsessed with the case, and his investigation turns into a personal quest for truth and meaning.

The movie is beautifully shot, with a haunting and evocative soundtrack that captures the mood and atmosphere of London. The performances are excellent, especially Charles Dance, who gives a nuanced and subtle portrayal of Harry. He is a complex and intriguing character, who is not afraid to confront his own demons and to question his own assumptions. Cassie Stuart is also outstanding as Bridget, conveying the fragility and vulnerability of a young woman who has been damaged by her family's history. Bill Paterson is superb as Max, bringing a calm and compassionate presence to the screen.

The themes of the movie are universal and timeless, touching on issues of love, loss, identity, and memory. The movie asks fundamental questions about what it means to be human and to live in a world that is both magical and mundane. It explores the depths of the human psyche, and the complex interplay between conscious and unconscious forces.

Overall, Hidden City is a compelling and thought-provoking movie that rewards careful viewing and reflection. It is a rare gem of British cinema, a movie that combines mystery, drama, and philosophy in a unique and unforgettable way. It is a must-see for anyone who loves London, mystery movies, or deep and meaningful stories.