Andrea Riseborough is very good in 'Shadow Dancer', James Marsh's film about a reluctant IRA informer. I usually think of her as an archetypal English rose, but she plays a tough young Irishwoman with aplomb. The film, however, is extremely low key, especially Clive Owen, whose catatonic performance seems to be what his director ordered, but which adds to the general feeling of listlessness. The plot is nicely judged, but the execution lacks the tension the subject matter should impart.

(spoilers)I enjoyed watching director John Marsh's "Shadow Dancer", an espionage suspense movie set in UK with a story of a Irish woman emotionally scarred by her young brother's tragic death in the 70s during English/Irish conflicts in Belfast. Most of the movie is set in early 90s Ireland when the IRA fought against English rule. Headlines and fighting in this civil/domestic war have been burnt out for good measure since then, but this story features competent acting and satisfactory suspense. The couple of twists were mixed, one well done, and one predictable. Andrea Risborough is a gorgeous and expressive actress, with wide expressive blue eyes. Her Irish accent is spot on (dont know if she herself is actually Irish). She led the movie with quiet expressive resilience. 7/10

This was an excellent and taut thriller or espionage film. There is a tension through-out that keeps one on edge. Its' very well acted by Maria Laird who portrays an individual strained and being pulled in several directions. Her performance is subtle and she is visibly feeling the stress without displaying undue emotion. It is a quiet film that grows on you and is never over-acted (no Hollywood pyrotechnics). Clive Owen role was more like that of a supporting actor – the focus is own Maria Laird. Her performance holds our attention throughout as we don't know what is around the corner.The ending is a surprise but a fitting denouement. When you play with fire it can burn.

what an extraordinary story told in a narrative style which keeps you guessing all the way to the final shot. all the performances were terrific, subtle as the story unfolds. i am a big history buff, so that aspect of this movie was a real treat for me personally. as i say, the only thing new is the history we do not know. i would highly recommend this movie to any thoughtful viewer who wants to be informed and entertained. it was truly a pleasure to have happened on this while going through the stacks at my library in the DVD section.bravo to the actors, author and screenplay writer and a wonderful piece of directing including style and pacing. a job well done, indeed!!!!!!