Dance with a Stranger

Critics Consensus

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91%

TOMATOMETER

Total Count: 11

70%

Audience Score

User Ratings: 1,577
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Movie Info

This darkly haunting slightly fictionalized film is a retelling of the life and death of Ruth Ellis (Miranda Richardson), the last woman to be executed in England. Ellis, a divorcee and ex-prostitute works as a "hostess" in a tacky nightclub. There she meets and begins an obsessive love affair with upper-class David Blakely (Rupert Everett), who eventually discards her. Still obsessed and jealous because of David's upcoming marriage to a woman of his own class, Ellis murders him. Miranda Richardson, in a stark, knock-out performance is outstanding as the cold, calculating Ellis, unscrupulous in her use of everyone to get what she wants. Ian Holm, in an often-overlooked performance, is superb as the man who loves Ellis, supporting her and her teenage son, without ever gaining her love. He is her mainstay and the surrogate father to her teenage son, who Ellis has little time for. In his own, quiet way he is as obsessed as Ellis. The screenplay, adapted by Shelagh Delaney remains faithful to the true story, taking only minor dramatic license. Dance With a Stranger is an uncompromising look at obsessive love and its consequences on others. The story is made even more poignant because of the sad life and eventual suicide of Ellis' real son.

Cast

Miranda Richardson
as Ruth Ellis
Rupert Everett
as David Blakeley
Ian Holm
as Desmond Cussen
Matthew Carroll
as Andy
Tom Chadbon
as Anthony Findlater
Jane Bertish
as Carole Findlater
David Troughton
as Cliff Davis
Paul Mooney
as Clive Gunnell
Stratford Johns
as Morrie Conley
Joanne Whalley
as Christine
Susan Kyd
as Barbara
Lesley Manville
as Maryanne
Sallie-Anne Field
as Claudette
David Beale
as Man in Little Club
Martin Murphy
as Roy
Tracy-Louise Ward
as Girl with David Blakely
Michael Jen
as Wilf
Nicholas McArdle
as Landlord
Miki Iveria
as Landlady
Lizzie McKenzie
as Woman in Launderette
Ian Hurley
as Policeman
Charles Cork
as Policeman
Patrick Field
as Builder
Colin Rix
as Landlord
Tony Mathews
as Customer
Charon Bourke
as Ballroom Singer
Elizabeth Newell
as Baby
Alan Thompson
as Ralph
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Critic Reviews for Dance with a Stranger

All Critics (11) | Top Critics (2) | Fresh (10) | Rotten (1)

View All Critic Reviews (11)

Audience Reviews for Dance with a Stranger

  • Mar 10, 2009
    Good News/Bad News Good News: Miranda Richardson is incredible. Beyond her command of the character, which in itself is remarkable, is her sheer screen presence. To quote Steve Wiecking, she looks like a "delicious chilled confection". Bad News: The film has a BBC-made-for-television feel to it, especially the sound reproduction and score. Good News: The docudrama presentation lends itself well to detail and, as far as I can tell, historical accuracy. Ruth's debilitating codependency with her abusive and alcoholic beau is laid before us with excruciating clarity. Bad News: Except for a postscript reference, there are no details about Ruth's trial, incarceration, execution, or the impact it all had [if any] on public attitudes and perceptions. <i>Dance With A Stranger</i> delivers a detailed reenactment of a terminally dysfunctional relationship, but barely hints at the tragic consequences.
    Randy T Super Reviewer
  • Aug 16, 2007
    Based on the story of Ruth Ellis - the last woman to be hanged in Britain. The film provides the tale of the build up toward her crime of passion. Miranda Richardson (possibly better known for her comedy roles) plays a great role here as a woman who doesn't suffer fools gladly and a fiesty, perhaps controversial character of her time and has a weakness in the man she loves. I am unaware of how factual this film is, but it made for entertaining viewing.
    Lady D Super Reviewer
  • May 08, 2007
    dark intriguing movie. miranda richardson is sensational.
    jay n Super Reviewer
  • Feb 20, 2007
    To describe this as the true story of the last woman ever hanged in England, would be a disservice. It's a touching and sad story, wonderfully acted. This is the film in which I first fell in love with Miranda Richardson (and Rupert Everett). Great performances by all.
    Robert C Super Reviewer
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