All the Old Knives (2022), directed by Janus Metz, is a sleek and suspenseful spy thriller based on the novel by Olen Steinhauer. The film examines the morally complicated world of espionage, where trust is fragile, and secrets run deep. Set primarily in a luxurious restaurant in Vienna, the story centers on a meeting between two former spies, Henry (Chris Pine) and Celia (Thandiwe Newton), who share a past and have to confront painful memories about a mission that went wrong. As they revisit old wounds, All the Old Knives unpacks themes of betrayal, love, and the ambiguous nature of memory, making it a gripping psychological drama.

The plot unfolds through a tense dinner conversation between Henry and Celia, who are both intelligence officers in the CIA. The two once worked together on a high-stakes operation involving a terrorist hijacking of a plane. The mission ended disastrously, with the loss of innocent lives, and both agents were left to carry the emotional and moral burden of their actions. As they discuss the events of the mission, long-buried secrets are revealed, and the true nature of their past relationship begins to surface. The film thrives on the slow unraveling of these hidden truths, forcing both characters—and the audience—to question the reliability of their memories and motivations.

A key theme in All the Old Knives is the complexity of human relationships, especially in the context of espionage. Both Henry and Celia share an intimate history that transcends their professional connection. Their romance, which once seemed promising, is now tainted by the devastating consequences of their work. The tension between personal desires and professional duties is palpable, as they are forced to confront how their choices, both personal and professional, led to betrayal. Their chemistry, skillfully portrayed by Chris Pine and Thandiwe Newton, adds emotional depth to the film, making their interactions feel raw and believable.

The narrative also explores the themes of trust and deception, which are central to espionage. Henry and Celia’s past mission is full of contradictions, and as they question each other’s involvement, the audience is led to reconsider who can be trusted. Both characters have personal stakes, as their actions in the past have shaped their lives, and now they must face the consequences. Laurence Fishburne plays Vick, a CIA superior, who adds another layer of complexity to the story, providing a different perspective on the events and offering a voice of authority that contrasts with the personal and emotional revelations between the two spies.

The film’s atmosphere is heightened by its sleek cinematography and atmospheric setting, which play a crucial role in intensifying the suspense. The opulent, yet slightly isolated, restaurant setting mirrors the tension between the characters and serves as a metaphor for their trapped emotional states. The juxtaposition of the beautiful surroundings with the dark, heavy conversations creates a palpable sense of unease. This tension is complemented by a sharp script that plays with memory and perception, keeping the audience engaged as they piece together the truth about the mission and the characters’ motives.

In conclusion, All the Old Knives (2022) is a sophisticated and engaging spy thriller that explores the personal and emotional toll of espionage. With its intricate character dynamics, sharp dialogue, and atmospheric tension, the film offers a thought-provoking commentary on trust, betrayal, and the cost of secrets. The performances by Chris Pine, Thandiwe Newton, and Laurence Fishburne bring depth and authenticity to their roles, making this a compelling exploration of how the past shapes our actions and our relationships. In a genre often focused on action, All the Old Knives stands out for its introspective approach, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven suspense.