Watch The Two Faces of January

The Two Faces of January is a thrilling crime drama film released in 2014, directed by Hossein Amini, based on the 1964 novel of the same name by Patricia Highsmith. The story takes place in Greece during the early 1960s, and it follows an American couple, Chester MacFarland (Viggo Mortensen) and his younger wife Colette (Kirsten Dunst), who are on vacation. They encounter a young American tourist, Rydal (Oscar Isaac), who works as a tour guide in Greece. Rydal has a passion for local history and culture, but also for getting involved in dangerous situations, leading to a thrilling confrontation with some local thugs. Chester and Colette invite Rydal to dine with them, and they strike up an immediate rapport. However, Chester soon reveals that he is not the successful businessman he claims to be, and that he has some serious legal and financial problems back in the United States. Rydal is intrigued by Chester's mysterious past and decides to help him and his wife. Despite the age gap between Rydal and Colette, the two form a strong connection that grows over time, much to Chester's chagrin. The trio embarks on a trip to Athens, where they visit the Acropolis and other historical landmarks. But their idyllic vacation turns into a nightmare, when Chester accidentally kills a private detective who has followed him from the United States. Panicking, the couple turns to Rydal for help, and the trio embarks on a wild chase, trying to get out of the country without arousing suspicion. As they travel together, the dynamics between the characters change rapidly. Chester's secrets are revealed, and Rydal becomes increasingly attracted to Colette. The tensions escalate as they are pursued by the local police and by the private detective's associate. Chester's past comes to light, and his duplicitous nature takes a toll on his marriage. Despite their efforts to escape, the trio's paranoia and greed lead to a shocking conclusion in which they are forced to confront the consequences of their actions. The movie is a stylish psychological thriller with a sharp script and outstanding performances by the leading actors. Viggo Mortensen fully embodies the complex character of Chester, who is charming, deceitful, and ruthless at the same time. Kirsten Dunst delivers a touching performance, portraying a young woman who struggles to come to terms with her marriage and her own desires. Oscar Isaac showcases his talent as an actor in his portrayal of Rydal, a character with a dark past and a dangerous curiosity. The director, Hossein Amini, created a tense and captivating atmosphere, and the cinematography by Marcel Zyskind matches it perfectly, capturing the beauty of Greece while also emphasizing the characters' inner turmoil. The Two Faces of January is a gripping thriller that takes the viewers on a rollercoaster ride, exploring themes of love, greed, and moral corruption. The movie stays faithful to the source material, without shying away from the darker aspects of the story. It is a must-see for fans of crime dramas and psychological thrillers.