Mischa Barton makes her UK stage debut as the dangerously seductive Phyllis Nirdlinger in Double Indemnity. James M. Cain’s gripping novel comes to life in this adaptation by Tom Holloway and directed by Oscar Toeman, in a special arrangement of ILP theatrical.
Set in 1930s Los Angeles, Walter Huff a sharp-eyed insurance salesman (Ciarán Owens) meets Phyllis Nirdlinger (Barton) and finds himself drawn into her web. With Walter’s knowledge of insurance laws and Phyllis’ passion for danger, together they plan the perfect crime: murder the husband, cash in the policy, and disappear into the Californian sunset.
Set behind the Hollywood sign, Ti Green’s set transports the audience to a dingey, concrete tunnel receding into the back wall. The grate walls open and close, allowing the ensemble and set to move seamlessly across the stage. The minimalist set allowed for inventive choices to instantly set a scene, without overly relying on props or backdrops. Moving from an office, to a house, to a car, to the edge of a train, the set leant itself to every scenario, and trapped the characters in the world of deceit that they were creating.
Josh Gadsby’s lighting design complimented the set perfectly and created the film noir shadows for the actors to hide in. The play begins with Walter directly addressing the audience, with his silhouette cast on both sides of the walls, seeming like he was surrounded by people listening in, or waiting to catch him. The lighting and set together aided the mysterious and dangerous feel of the show, especially when the light would peer through the grates in the walls, obscuring faces and casting large shadows.
Whilst the whole ensemble was strong, the highlight of the cast was Martin Marquez. His portrayal of the driven and complicated Keyes brought a great energy and excitement to the story, and had the audience rooting for him to uncover the truth that they were privy to. Maybe he is initially overlooked by both Walter and the audience, but his sharp mind and dedication to his job drive his search for answers.
Similarly, Ciarán Owens demonstrated versatility in his role as Walter Huff. Beginning as smug and presumptuous, as the plot unfolds Owens expertly showed the unravelling and desperation of a man who has lost control.
This interpretation of the iconic novel was a success, and will be continuing its tour in Bromley, Manchester and Cardiff.
Find out what else is coming up at the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse via For more information and tickets visit everymanplayhouse.com and find out more about Double Indemnity at doubleindemnityplay.co.uk.