Innocent Lies (1995)
Innocent Lies (1995) is a British mystery thriller directed by Patrick Dewolf. The film is loosely based on Agatha Christie’s novel Towards Zero and stars Stephen Dorff, Gabrielle Anwar, Joanna Lumley, and Adrian Dunbar. It presents a dark and suspenseful narrative set in 1938, just before the outbreak of World War II.
The story follows Alan Cross (Adrian Dunbar), a British detective investigating the murder of his close friend, who was also a fellow detective. His search leads him to the wealthy Graves family, who reside in a lavish estate in France. The family, led by Lady Helena Graves (Joanna Lumley), harbors deep secrets and disturbing relationships.
Central to the mystery are the siblings Jeremy (Stephen Dorff) and Celia Graves (Gabrielle Anwar), who share an unsettlingly close bond. As Alan delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, obsession, and psychological manipulation. His discoveries reveal hidden pasts, forbidden desires, and dangerous lies that threaten to unravel the family’s aristocratic façade.
The film’s eerie atmosphere is enhanced by its haunting cinematography and a suspenseful musical score. Innocent Lies explores themes of forbidden love, guilt, and moral corruption. The slow-burning tension and psychological complexity add depth to the murder investigation, making it more than just a typical whodunit.
Though the film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its moody aesthetics while others found its plot convoluted, it remains an intriguing psychological thriller for fans of dark and twisted mysteries. Innocent Lies offers a gripping tale of deception where nothing is as innocent as it seems.
