The Outfit: A Stylish and Gripping Whodunit

Directed by: Graham Moore  

Starring: Mark Rylance, Zoey Deutch, Dylan O'Brien, Johnny Flynn, Simon Russell Beale

**Rating:** ★★★★☆

Movies rarely come as chic and meticulously crafted as The Outfit, a sophisticated whodunit that combines the suspense of a classic mystery with the elegance of a well-tailored suit. This is writer Graham Moore’s first film since his award-winning success with The Imitation Game in 2015, and his directorial debut does not disappoint. Moore and co-writer Johnathan McClain weave a tightly knit story that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

Plot Overview

Set in a smoky, intimate Chicago outfitter in the 1950s, The Outfit follows Leonard Burling (Mark Rylance), a Savile Row-trained cutter who fled London after WWII. Leonard now runs a small, exclusive bespoke shop, dressing Chicago's elite. He insists on being called a cutter, not a tailor, as he prides himself on his meticulous craftsmanship, treating his cutting table like an operating bed.

Beneath the surface of Leonard’s calm and orderly life lies a web of intrigue. His shop is a safe haven for the Boyle crime family, led by the seemingly temperate Roy (Simon Russell Beale) and his son Richie (Dylan O'Brien), along with their associates Francis (Johnny Flynn) and Monk (Alan Mehdizadeh). Leonard maintains a low profile, minding his business and mentoring his shop assistant, Mable (Zoey Deutch), who dreams of escaping Chicago for Paris.

 Performances

Mark Rylance delivers a masterful performance as Leonard, embodying the quiet precision and depth of a man with a hidden past. His reserved demeanor and poker-faced expression add layers to his character, making him both intriguing and sympathetic.

Zoey Deutch shines as Mable, balancing innocence with a hint of sly ambition. Her dynamic with Rylance’s Leonard is captivating, as she navigates her own plans and aspirations. The supporting cast, including Simon Russell Beale, Dylan O'Brien, and Johnny Flynn, bring depth and complexity to their roles, adding to the film's rich tapestry.

Direction and Cinematography

Graham Moore’s directorial debut is a triumph of style and substance. He skillfully transforms what could have been a stage play into a cinematic experience, using the single location to create a sense of claustrophobic tension. Moore’s direction is precise, focusing on what to reveal and what to conceal, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film's visual appeal is enhanced by the exquisite production design by Gemma Jackson, who creates a lush, period-accurate environment. The costumes, crafted with dizzying precision by Sophie O’Neill and renowned fashion designer Zac Posen, further immerse the audience in the 1950s setting.

Thematic Elements

The Outfit explores themes of identity, deception, and the fine line between appearance and reality. Leonard’s insistence on being called a cutter rather than a tailor speaks to his desire for recognition and respect, while the criminal underworld that intersects with his life adds layers of danger and intrigue.

The film’s plot thickens as Leonard becomes entangled in a web of crime involving a rival family, an elite organization called "the outfit," and a possible rat recording incriminating conversations. The story’s twists and turns keep the audience engaged, never quite sure who to trust.

Conclusion

The Outfit is a stylish, gripping whodunit that showcases Graham Moore’s talent both as a writer and a director. With a stellar cast led by Mark Rylance and a richly detailed setting, the film is a feast for the eyes and the mind. Its combination of suspense, elegance, and meticulous craftsmanship makes it a standout in the genre.

For those who appreciate a well-made mystery with a touch of old-world charm, The Outfit is a must-see. It’s a film that goes about its business with limited resources but leaves a lasting impression, proving that sometimes, less is more.