Adam

Starring Hugh Dancy as a New York resident suffering from Aspergers Syndrome, and Rose Byrne as his new neighbour, Adam explores the breakdown between being a social recluse and easing into the real world.

With Hugh Dancy playing the titular character, the audience is treated to a masterclass in acting. Every grimace, awkward moment and painful stare is captured and expressed by the newly-emerging English-born actor who delivers one of the best performances in recent years. With new neighbour Beth moving in, the inpetus is placed upon Adam to make a friend - and a lover - by breaking out of his disability and adapting to social norms from the 'real world'.

Suffering from her own personal problems, and with her father facing legal disaster, Beth is simply looking for someone who can be at her beck and call, providing warmth and a shoulder to cry on. Adam, with his condition, makes life difficult for himself but learns from his mistakes, and as a couple, try to resolve their own problems in a bid to find a happy life together.

Whilst the acting from Dancy is mesmeric - and at times deeply unsettling - the storyline falls away in the latter stages, perhaps bringing the piece to a stuttering climax. Byrne's natural beauty shines through, however, an aspect which makes up for the rest of her rather bland character.

7/10