Plot: What’s it about?
Johnny Worricker (Bill Nighy) is an MI5 agent, but his latest assignment is his most dangerous one ever. Thanks to some underhanded tactics by prime minister Alec Beasley (Ralph Fiennes), Worricker has been forced to go on the run, with newspaper editor Margot Tyrell (Helena Bonham-Carter) by his side. The two have been traveling across Europe, moving on a regular basis in an attempt to keep ahead of potential trouble. While the two have been able to elude detection, Worricker knows it isn’t a permanent solution to their situation. Sooner or later, Worricker will need to confront Beasley, clear his own name, and find a way to return to his normal life. The best chance for Worricker is to reveal the prime minister’s illegal activities, which includes shady business deals and all kinds of financial improprieties. The plan seems simple, but getting the evidence needed won’t be an easy task, not to mention that Worricker isn’t the only one out to take down the prime minister. With time running out, can Worricker unravel the truth about the prime minister and get his life back?
This is the third and final volume in The Johnny Worricker Trilogy, presented here in the original UK version. I found this to be a terrific, satisfying conclusion that managed to hit all the right notes. It is always interesting to watch as the various threads of a story come to a close, but a proper ending eludes a lot of projects. Not here however, thanks to some great writing and of course, simply excellent performances. While mainstream acting these days is more manic scene chewing than subtle technique, the cast here is spot on and never ventures into that absurd area. Bill Nighy shows once again that he can master dramatic work just as he can comedic ones, with a vibrant and intense performance. His partnership with Helena Bonham-Carter here really shines and their chemistry adds so much to the experience. Even small roles are played with a natural presence, so Salting the Battlefield boasts a rock solid cast overall. While this espionage tale isn’t as explosive as James Bond fodder, it more than delivers where it counts, as the narrative and characters are well developed. I’d much rather watch this kind of political thriller, where events make sense and special effects aren’t the main focus. If you’re a fan of well written, well performed dramas, Salting the Battlefield (as well as the other Johnny Worricker installments) is well recommended.
Video: How’s it look?
Salting the Battlefield is presented in 1.78:1 widescreen. This looks excellent, with a crisp and detailed presence. The level of depth is impressive, so you will know you’re watching a high definition product. This transfer shows that you don’t need brash special effects and explosions to have a visually impressive experience. Being able to see the smallest of details really opens up the visuals and makes the entire viewing experience more immersive.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The audio isn’t memorable, but it does what it needs to. The main emphasis is on dialogue, so it sounds clear and never suffers from any concerns. The music sounds good and is well placed within the mix, so that it never overpowers the vocals. The rest of the sound design is natural and suits the tone of the feature. Maybe not a soundtrack that you will rave about, but it more than gets the job done.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Interviews – A collection of promotional interviews with prominent cast and crew members. These were designed to be part of an electronic press kit, so they’re not all that in depth. Just brisk snippets, the kind you’d see in television interviews where folks promote their projects.
