The Outfit

           If you are a fan of the actor Mark Rylance, and who isn't, then this old fashioned "drawing room crime drama" is for you. Mr. Rylance is excellent as a Leonard Burling, a "cutter" who makes fine suits and owns a small shop in 1956 Chicago.

          The story seems more like a play than a film taking place entirely in the inside the shop but it's claustrophobic setting is perfect for the twists in this finely knit (pun intended) crime story. Burling's shop is used as a drop box for the mob while he goes about his business with only his receptionist Mabel (played by Zooey Deutch) for company. When a mysterious tape ends up in the collection box it sets off a series of secrets revealed and unexpected betrayals.

          Also co-starring are Simon Russell Beale as Mob boss, Roy Boyle, Dylan O'Brien as his hot headed son, Ritchie, Johnny Flynn as Boyle's enforcer, Francis and Nikki Amuka-Bird as LaFontaine. It's a fine cast in a faux Hitchcockian story led by the terrific Mr. Rylance. Director and co-writer Graham Moore makes full use of the small space creating a suspenseful atmosphere with clever camera work and a fitting score. The pace of the story slowly peels away layers that keeps the tension rising.

         My only problem with the film is that while it takes place in 1956, a crucial part of the story involves something not created until 1962. Mr. Moore should have done a better job with his research.