Child 44

THIS is an adaption of British author Tom Rob Smith’s first novel, which kick-started a trilogy featuring protagonist Leo Demidov.

Set in the Soviet Union at the height of Joseph Stalin’s rule in 1953, Child 44 follows Demidov (Hardy), a Soviet war hero currently working for the MGB (Ministry of State Security), a secret police agency in Moscow.

When his colleague’s son is murdered by an unknown serial killer, Demidov is forced to cover up the case by issuing a statement that the child died in a train accident, adhering to the country’s “there is no crime in paradise” policy.

Demidov then loses his status, power and home when he refuses to denounce his wife, Raisa (Rapace), as a spy and traitor to the country. The couple is exiled to a grim provincial outpost in Volsk under the command of General Mikhail Nesterov (Oldman).

In Volsk, another series of murders involving young boys occurs, leading Demidov to believe that they are all connected to the death of his

Tom Hardy, Noomi Rapace and Gary Oldman Director: Daniel Espinosa E-Value: 8 Acting: 7 Plot: 7

colleague’s son. Wanting to bring the serial killer to justice, Demidov and Raisa enlist Nesterov’s help.

However, his rival, Vasili Nikitin (Joel Kinnaman), is trying to stop them from exposing the truth about crimes occurring in the country.

The cast do a fine job in their roles, especially Hardy with his portrayal of Demidov and his fine imitation of the Russian accent.

The movie’s great plot will keep you focused on the search for the serial killer, and will also give you an insight into Russian society during the Cold War.

Overall, this is an interesting movie with a great story. Whether you have read the novel or not, this is one movie that should not be missed.