Young Adam (2003)

Synopsis: Joe is a young man who lives in a barge with a couple, Les and Ella, and their little son. They transport coal and other stuff; that's how they make a living. One day the two men find a dead body floating on the water. It's a young woman wearing only a petticoat. Joe starts an affair with Ella. Meanwhile, we see flashbacks of Joe and a woman he had a relationship with.
Appraisal: Based on a 1957 novel by Alexander Trocchi, this film is a well directed tale of adultery and other secrets that is nevertheless not all that absorbing. Apart from the somewhat monotonous storyline, what I disliked most was the less than credible trial of the dead girl's married friend. But to be honest I don't know much about the Scottish justice system at the unspecified (60's?) time at which the film is set. On the good side, the most impressive thing for me was how the film shows the subtle change in Ella's treatment of Joe, after Les leaves. All the actors in this film are perfect. This film has similarities with earlier ones, like those based on the novel The Postman Always Rings Twice, and Knife in the Water; the central character is reminiscent of the one in Alfie (1966).
Rating: 52