The Two Faces of January

British-Iranian writer Hossein Amini made his directing debut with this adaptation of the novel by Patricia Highsmith. An American couple on the run in Greece seek the help of a mysterious stranger which takes them on a dangerous journey. Amini made an accomplished debut with this thriller which he also brilliantly adapted for the screen with solid structure and breathless pacing where the loyalties and dynamics constantly shifts and the characters are not what they seem. Viggo Mortensen, Oscar Isaac and Kirsten Dunst star in the leads with solid performances while the sun drenched exotic locations enhances psychological effect. 1001 Films' coverage of the 57th San Francisco International Film Festival.