David Mamet once said, in essence, that acting and actors just weren't that big a deal - an actor learns what to say, stands where he's told to stand to say the words and that's that. When Mamet directs his own work that's exactly how it seems. This is a very complicated plot and I have to admit, though I only went thru it once, there are some glaring plot holes that multiple viewings would either clear up or not...but overall, it's a fascinating story. If you're looking for action or even emotional outbursts, you won't find them here. Some of the acting (directing) is quite wooden and stiff...but that's Mamet. I love his use of language and the way people use each other. So I recommend this for sure. I'm just glad he didn't direct 'Glengarry Glen Ross'.
Review of The Spanish Prisoner
