“Fool Me Once” presents Michelle Keegan as Maya Stern, a former army ace grappling with a whirlwind of challenges after the brutal murders of her husband Joe and sister Claire. The narrative unfolds with a gripping intensity, as Maya’s attempt to find solace through a nanny-cam takes a startling turn when she spots her deceased husband in her own house.
Keegan’s portrayal of Maya is scintillatingly stony-faced, capturing the unraveling grip on reality as her character navigates a maze of mysteries and psychological turmoil. The film, cleverly linked to the Michelle Keegan extended universe, invites viewers to contemplate what might happen when her military drama character from “Our Girl” returns to civilian life.
The plot weaves a complex tapestry, introducing red herrings and bombshells with a weapons-grade air of mischief. Richard Armitage, playing Maya’s deceased husband Joe, and Natalie Anderson, as her late sister Claire, add depth to the storyline through their compelling performances. The sudden and violent deaths of Joe and Claire, along with an ongoing military scandal involving an army whistleblower, contribute to Maya’s tumultuous reality.
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Joanna Lumley commands the screen as Maya’s imperious mother-in-law, Judith. Lumley’s portrayal adds a layer of tension and disapproval, especially when she questions Maya’s suitability for Joe. The film cleverly explores Maya’s descent into paranoia, raising questions about the circumstances of Joe and Claire’s deaths. A Scooby Doo-style subplot involving Claire’s teenage children discovering an old camera unravels dark secrets from the past.
Maya’s journey is fraught with challenges, from a disapproving call from Judith to an unexpected pepper spray encounter with the nanny. The film delves into Maya’s anger management issues, vividly illustrated when she confronts a bullying coach at an underage football match. This multifaceted exploration of Maya’s character adds depth and complexity to the narrative, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
The cinematography and direction contribute to the film’s atmospheric tension, creating a sense of unease that mirrors Maya’s unraveling reality. The eclectic selection of machine guns in Maya’s kitchen becomes a metaphor for the arsenal of mysteries the audience must navigate. The pacing is adept, maintaining suspense while allowing room for character development.
“Fool Me Once” successfully combines psychological thriller elements with family drama and military intrigue. The interconnectedness of Maya’s personal and professional life adds layers of intrigue, making the film a captivating and unpredictable experience. As Maya grapples with the truth behind the deaths of her loved ones, the audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, deception, and revelation.
In conclusion, “Fool Me Once” is a wonderfully bonkers thriller that masterfully balances its various plotlines. Michelle Keegan’s compelling performance, supported by a talented cast, elevates the film to a riveting exploration of paranoia, loss, and the complexities of Maya Stern’s character. With its cleverly interwoven narrative and engaging twists, “Fool Me Once” stands out as a must-watch in the realm of psychological thrillers.