Overview

• ‘Black Bag – Doppeltes Spiel,’ starring Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett, explores loyalty and deception through an MI6 agent tasked with uncovering a mole, possibly his own wife.
• The film emphasizes psychological tension and dialogue over traditional action, with a key scene involving a truth serum-laced dinner to extract confessions.
• Despite critical acclaim for its sharp writing, high-gloss visuals, and standout performances, the film has only recouped half of its $60 million budget in the US.
• Director Steven Soderbergh has expressed concerns about the viability of mid-budget films, warning that they struggle to attract audiences over 25 in a franchise-dominated market.
• The European rollout continues this week, with the film serving as a litmus test for the commercial prospects of original, star-led thrillers.