'In The Loop' an outstanding political satire

Director: Armando Iannucci

Cast: James Gandolfini, Peter Capaldi, Chris Addeson, Chizzy Akudolu

Lies, crooked politicians, spin … in this funny and perceptive comedy it’s almost impossible to tell what’s real.

The story, packed with wry observations and snappy one-liners, revolves around the British PM and American president who think a war might be a good idea, and their various officials who have their doubts.

Once everybody has been conned into the war the wheels grind slowly into gear with a series of mishaps, political contortions, stupid decisions and wild statements … and it’s all glorious fun, in a chilling sort of way that reveals what is really happening in the corridors of power.

Capaldi, as Malcolm Tucker - the pitbull director of communications at Westminster - gives a knock-out performance of twists and contortions in a film that will delight and chill in equal measure.

Star Rating: 5/5