It was a time of mystery as the uncertainty of the Cold War
caused many to become less trustworthy. Part of this was due to the changing
nature of the workplace as women began acquiring serious jobs in the business
sector. However, most women were still barred from the highest positions, and
tensions between genders began to abound.

Demi Moore’s latest drama, “Flawless,” is the
story of such a woman. Moore (“Mr. Brooks”) plays Laura Quinn, who,
over the years, had been passed up several times for a job at the London
Diamond Corporation for which she was most qualified, only to lose it to a
wealthy man whose social status meant more to the company than Quinn’s
earnestness.

As time passed, Quinn grew increasingly frustrated and
deeply desired revenge, and a lowly nighttime janitor, Mr. Hobbs (Michael
Caine, “Batman Begins”), had a plan and motive of his own for the
same cause.

Directed by Michael Radford (“The Merchant of
Venice”), the film follows Hobbs as he persuades Quinn to plot with him
against the company by looting their coveted precious gems. Artfully creating
intrigue set against the dazzling atmosphere of 1960s London, this is a heist
film for the ages.

“Flawless” gives a thoughtful portrayal of the
spies and traitors that were common during the Cold War era. The dreary London
atmosphere and drab clothing is reminiscent of old detective stories,
especially the ones where a lone detective sits in his office chain smoking
with his brown, brimmed hat tilted down over his eyes, contemplating his latest
mystery.

That said, this film is especially appealing to any fan of
historic films. The attention to detail and recreation of a very realistic
setting for the time deserves applause. Unfortunately, however, there are some
scenes where the scanty attire worn by Moore seemed a bit too revealing for the
era.

Comparisons made between upper- and lower-class citizens in
London — namely of the poor janitor and the wealthy woman — were made evident
in a realistic, yet not demeaning, way. The hopeful story gives audiences
insight to both characters’ lives in a way that helps audiences identify with
the characters. This also makes the powerful ending even harder to swallow.

Michael Caine never fails to deliver in his performances. He
is the underdog throughout this film and, as such, is continually
underestimated in both his knowledge and skills. Never failing to keep the
audiences guessing, Caine does an amazing job of putting up a front as to avoid
suspicion and, above all, accusation.

Acting as the one who connects the audience to the
storyline, Moore also gives an outstanding emotional performance. The audience
is allowed to know every aspect of the story as Moore learns it, which lets the
audience experience the same bumps and twists as her plan unfolds.

In the end, “Flawless” is an exciting adventure
that deserves empathy as well as applause for its telling story and stellar
A-list cast.

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41/2 stars out of 5