WISHING ALL OUR READERS A VERY COMMUNITY: COMMUNITY:
As always, there is plenty going on in West Lothian this month, especially over the Easter weekend. A special mention is due to the Linlithgow Union Canal Society, who celebrate 50 years this year and were an important part in getting the canal cleaned up for all to enjoy. Their opening day for the season is 12th April and they have plenty on over the Easter weekend and through the year - see pages 20-21.
Look out too for a special evening this month at Kingsfield Barn, a stunning local wedding venue, for a chance to win your wedding venue on the night! See their advert opposite.
I caught up with the Bathgate Concert Orchestra, West Lothian’s very own longestablished concert orchestra, to find out more about them having attended a few of their concerts. A “happy mix of amateur and professional musicians”, they put on wonderful concerts regularly and are also looking for new musicians to join in the fun –see the article on pages 8-9.
Wishing all our readers and customers a lovely Easter weekend. Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
West Lothian has more than its fair share of musical talent across all genres, and one talented group of musicians can be found on a Friday night enjoying rehearsals with the Bathgate Concert Orchestra (BCO).
The orchestra is a happy mix of amateur and professional musicians. With a long history dating from 1952, it has encompassed many players, conductors, presidents and committees and been well served by them all. The BCOʼs current conductor is the highly talented musician Steven Meikle. Steven became Musical Director in January 2023 and, along with Aileen Lowdon, 1st Violin and Leader, brings a new dynamic to this very special orchestra.
One of Stevenʼs particular skills as a conductor lies in helping amateur players in the orchestral setting. The repertoire ranges from its large library of light classical music to new compositions, movie film themes and video game music so that there are pieces accessible to all. They tackle everything with enthusiasm and a night at the BCO concert is always a memorable treat.
A warm welcome awaits anyone who would like to join the orchestra. If you play an instrument and would like the social and developmental aspect of being in an orchestra, or perhaps you are a lapsed musician who hasnʼt picked up their instrument since school -you will be made very welcome at BCO. They
have capacity in all sections of the orchestra currently. The goal is simply to promote live music and encourage musicians of all ages in their musical development.
One particularly special feature of the BCO is their Tutored Rehearsal/Play Days (TRD). The play days are a unique opportunity for orchestra members together with other amateur musicians to be tutored by expert professional tutors in small groups for their section of the orchestra. Generous sponsorship by local business Maxim Power Tools Ltd means that this absolutely top quality tuition is available for around £30.(Student members of the orchestra pay half). Maxim Power Tools Ltd aim to encourage and support everyone, especially young people, to develop their musical skills and love of music which then brings happiness to so many listeners. Tutors for the TRDs came originally from the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and latterly from more diverse sources. The music worked on is based on upcoming BCO concerts. Invariably attendees make huge progress on the day and come away highly motivated as it shows what can be achieved and what they are capable of with a bit of support.
BCO Tutored Rehersal Days are open for application to any musicians; you donʼt need to be an orchestra member to attend. Itʼs recommended that youʼre playing at ABRSM Grade 4/5 or above to get the most out of it. The next TRD is on Saturday 26th April at the Craig Inn Community Centre, Blackridge. If you would like to attend please contact: secretary@bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk
Steven Meikle was a guest player with the BCO for some time as a percussionist before becoming Musical Director. Having graduated in 2020 with a degree in music focused on piano and percussion and occupying various roles on the Scottish music scene, conducting evolved as his main passion. When the former BCO conductor, Michael Graham, left for new opportunities, Steven was offered the post on a temporary basis and was confirmed as full Musical Director on a permanent contract a few months later. Under Stevenʼs baton, BCO continues to develop and allow local amateur musicians to find their home here.
There are several concerts throughout the year at venues across West Lothian including Bathgate, Livingston, Linlithgow, Fauldhouse and Winchburgh. Entry is by donation. As one orchestra member says,”We are definitely worth a ticket price. Entry is by donation because we want to encourage everyone to come and enjoy our music, no barriers at all.” Foxes Burtons, who sponsor BCO events in kind, are pleased to help keep community activity alive as once lost it is very difficult to restart.
Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities
In order to provide this top quality musical development opportunity, the orchestra relies on business sponsorship. Business Sponsors are mentioned on posters and programmes and at each well-attended concert. If you are interested in sponsoring BCO please contact: treasurer@bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk for information.
Becoming a Friend of the BCO
Friends are valued for themselves and their presence at concerts and at £10 per annum contribute a valuable guaranteed income which is currently used to purchase new music. If you are interested in becoming a Friend please contact: secretary@bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk
This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, Konect editor, after speaking with members of BCO and attending their wonderful concerts in West Lothian.
Boiler service only £70 with this advert*
*Offer valid until 30th April 2025
Carers of West Lothian have recently launched a Memory Information Support booklet to help provide those living in West Lothian with an awareness of what memory difficulties may look like, and what local support is available. This resource includes a wealth of valuable information for those supporting someone with memory issues, such as on financial, legal and wellbeing matters, and about how and when to access this support.
It highlights the importance of having conversations with family when you first start seeing these changes and including the person experiencing memory difficulties too.
The ‘Memory Issue Journey’ helps to explain what you might expect and where you might
be on this once you have started the process of speaking with medical professionals. Following this can give an indication of what the next steps might be, and help avoid periods of ‘unknowns’.
While each journey may look different for each family, knowing what may come next can bring some comfort whilst you wait for next steps and knowing what other agencies can support you.
If you have concerns around a family member’s memory, or have been referred to the Older People’s Community Mental Health Team (also known as the Memory Treatment Service), we would encourage those supporting someone to reach out to Carers of West Lothian to speak with the Memory Information Support Team (MIST) by calling 01506 448000.
The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
Come explore, celebrate, relax…
You will have to be of a certain ‘vintage’ to remember how derelict and unattractive the Union Canal had become by the 70’s and 80’s. It looked unloved.
It had opened in 1822 to transport freight and passengers between Edinburgh and Glasgow, but its traffic had quickly dwindled with the coming of the railway. By 1965 it was closed to navigation. Along most of its length mud and rubbish had accumulated and parts had even been deliberately filled in. Many people thought that this was senseless.
In 1975 Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS) was formed. Its members rolled up their sleeves and manually began clearing the mud and waste. Through their example, funding for machine-clearing was eventually raised. Together with other groups they were
a catalyst for the Millenium Project to re-open Scotland’s lowland canals.
2025 is LUCS 50th anniversary and we’d like you to come to the beautiful Manse Road Basin to enjoy the fruits of five decades of voluntary work and help us celebrate. The basin harbours four passenger boats which provide cruises to over 1600 people annually, many free to special groups. Those cruises can vary in duration from 30 mins to 9 hours! Some offer lovely afternoon teas!
LUCS’ members ‘drive’ the boats but there are opportunities for you to book a trip and drive one yourself. Our website
has all the details. If being on the water is not your thing, you can still enjoy being beside it: we have a tearoom, plus Scotland’s only canal museum. Here we welcome visitors from throughout the world but we really want to welcome more locals!
We have a busy year ahead of us so don’t limit yourself to just one visit!
• Sat 12th April – Opening Day (weekend activities continue until 28th September)
• Mon 14th - 18th April – Easter weekday activities
• 30th June to 22nd August – Summer weekday activities
• Sun 10th August – Fun Day & Cardboard Boat Race
• Sat 6th September – Boater’s Gathering
• Weekend 25th/26th October – Halloween Cruises
• 13th/14th and 20/21st December – Santa Cruises
All these memorable days are provided by volunteers of all ages. We annually provide over 7000 hours of cooperative service. We drive the boats, fix the engines, serve the teas etc. Come join in! You will have a skill we can use, and you will get a lot of satisfaction from being one of the ‘crew’.
Our members can do everything that needs done, but we cannot finance everything by ourselves. Our flagship, Victoria, for instance demands a refit. If you can help finance that please visit our secure and simple donation page on our website. We’d be very grateful for your support, no matter how modest you may think it is.
VISIT US, JOIN US, SUPPORT US and be part of the next 50 years of LUCS success.
Manse Road Basin is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the train station, near the Palace, High Street, and Loch!
To get involved or for any further information please,
Email: info@lucs.org.uk
Visit: www.lucs.org.uk
This article was contributed by the Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS). LUCS is a charity, registered in Scotland, No. SC011100
Our Pink Lady is always ready to offer gardening advice and here she is suggesting that you grow some herbs in pots and try making Herbal Infusions.
Most herbs are happy in pots. Use a John Innes No 2 compost and a frostproof pot. Pots of herbs can be very ornamental in your garden and this is the perfect time of year to plant them or feed your existing ones.
Her favourite herbal infusion is a Lemon Verbena Tea. This herb needs to come indoors for the winter as it isn’t hardy, so growing it in a pot is the best thing to do.
Use a good bunch of freshly cut herbs infused in water just off the boil. You can gently dry the herbs in a cool oven and then store them for later use.
Peppermint and Spearmint make lovely infusions and she points out that growing mints in pots stops them spreading around your garden. She also says you should grow just one variety of mint in each pot to maintain their distinctive flavours.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
Pink lady with her herb pots
For such a small bird, there’s a lot to say about them.
Surprisingly, they’re not the smallest bird in the U.K. (that’s the goldcrest) Their scientific name is “Troglodyte” which means cave dweller, referencing their behaviour of building nests which only have a small opening. They’ll roost together in winter and up to 60 have been recorded in one box, their size is definitely a benefit to staying warm.
The males can build up to twelve nests in an effort to impress the ladies, who have the ultimate decision on whether he’s mastered the key wren DIY skills.
According to the Scottish Wildlife Trust, per unit weight, it sings at ten time the power of a crow-ing cockerel. Speaking of their song, if you’ve ever listened to it then you can appreciate how complex it is considering how short it usually is. Some sources say their song can contain up to 64 notes in just a few seconds.
This is a great time of year to hear them as they defend their territories and sing to attract a mate. I’ve always found them particularly tricky to photograph as they don’t hang around on an attrac-tive perch long before they’re back in the undergrowth looking for food, which is another reason why they might be called cave dwellers. They weigh about the same as a £1 coin, proving that powerful bird song isn’t about size.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
April is Stress Awareness Month and while we’re all probably well acquainted with what stress feels like for humans, do you know how to detect it in your pet?
Stress in pets can arise from a variety of causes, such as loud noises, a change in routine, boredom, frustration, a lack of exercise, health issues or pain.
Obvious signs are changes in behaviour, appetite and confidence - they may be hiding more. They could be overgrooming or being destructive in the home. Subtle signs can be as small as body posture, yawning or lip licking. Dogs may pace or shake, and if they appear to be ignoring cues they know, barking more or having accidents in the home, don’t assume this is just bad behaviour – it could be down to stress.
Stress in pets should never be ignored as it can have a major effect on the urinary system, as well as other vital organs. Cats in particular hide their problems so if you see any signs of stress, the problem could have already been going on for a while. Seek professional help.
Visiting the vet is often stressful for pets – we are Scotland’s first Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice and we run confidence clinics at our Linlithgow practice (when the practice is closed) and at South Queensferry (during working hours) to reduce stress in dogs and help them feel comfortable with examinations and equipment for future treatment.
Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com
ACROSS: 7.Type of hat (6), 8. Assault (6), 9. Not pretty (4), 10. Exciting (8), 11. Style of writing (7), 13. Cold (5), 15. Freshwater fish (5), 17. Loosening (7), 20. Fruit trees are grown here (8), 21. Legend (4), 22. Mixes together (6), 23. Writer (6).
DOWN: 1. Zero (6), 2. Remain (4), 3. Foretell (7), 4. Boring (5), 5. Evenly (8), 6. Economise (6), 12. Chuckling (8), 14. Uncommon (7), 16. Seldom (6), 18. Idea (6), 19. Squash (5), 21. Dumb (4).
The crossword solution will be published in the May edition of Konect.
SAT 5TH APRIL
Bill Jones’ Renaissance Swing Band - Hosted by Linlithgow Jazz. Queen Margaret Hall, Linlithgow, 7.30pm. Tickets £13 from Far From the Madding Crowd. www.linlithgowjazz.co.uk
SAT 12TH APRIL
Opening Day at Linlithgow Union Canal Society - Cruises re-start. See feature on pages 20-21 and website at lucs. org.uk to book
SAT 12TH AND SUN 13TH APRIL
Lothians Model Railway Exhibition - Make tracks for the Student Union at Heriot Watt University to visit the Lothians Model Railway Exhibition. Sixteen working layouts, trade support Lego railway for the kids, shunting puzzle for everyone, on site cafe and ample parking. Great day out for enthusiasts and families. 10am-4.30pm. 30 mins early entry for individuals with disabilities and sensory conditions. Adults £6, kids FREE with paying adult, free colour guide. More info www.lothianmodelrail.co.uk
SUN 13TH APRIL
Friends of Beecraigs & Witchcraig Volunteer session - For this session we will be undertaking some maintenance along the path network at Witchcraig Woodland, which was recently upgraded, however the vegetation is growing in thick and fast and needs scraped back to maintain the path width. All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger. If you have some, please bring a pair of gloves, and wear appropriate clothing/footwear. Please bring along any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10am. Meet at the Korean War Memorial car park, on the road between Linlithgow and Bathgate. Free, but please book
via eventbrite on the West Lothian Council Ranger Service page
MON 14TH TO FRI 18TH APRIL
Easter weekday activities at Linlithgow Union Canal Society - See feature on pages 20-21 and website at lucs.org.uk
FRI 18TH TO MON 21ST APRIL
Easter Eggsplorer Trails - With Historic Environment Scotland at Linlithgow Palace and Blackness Castle. The birds are flocking to attend their annual spring party, but one of them is running late! Could it be the horseo’-the woods, the capercaillie? Jenny Hoolit, the tawny owl? Or maybe it’s the red-nebbit fisherman, the puffin? Follow the clues to figure out who’s missing, and you might just receive an egg-citing chocolatey reward! This self-guided trail, taking place at sites across the country, is the perfect family activity for this Easter weekend. Entrance is included in admission price. Drop-in throughout the day to join in the fun. 9:30 – 5pm, last entry 4:15pm
SAT 26TH APRIL
Gallus Brass - Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. Gallus Brass promise to bring an engaging and entertaining concert going experience - whether you enjoy classical favourites such as Rossini’s William Tell Overture or Film moments from the likes of Leonard Bernstein or John Williams, there’s something for everyone. Low Port Centre, refreshments at 8 and music from 8:30pm. Tickets £16/£6, via www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk
SUN 27TH APRIL
The Gruffalo Visits - Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway. Steam train trips, the chance to see The Gruffalo at intervals, and more. Every child will receive a railway storybook, gingerbread train biscuit, railway activity sheet and juice carton. Information and booking via Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway at www.bkrailway.co.uk
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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
BELLSBURN BOWLING CLUB - A welcoming and friendly lawn bowls club open for all ages and abilities. Join us for social or competitive playing. This season’s opening day is anticipated to be 19th April at Linlithgow Sports Club. Plan now to attend and give the club a try. For more information, see our Facebook page and website www.linlithgowsportsclub.com/bowls-zone, or email linlithgow.sports.club@gmail.com
GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.
THE CARING CAFE - Alzheimer Scotland’s Caring Cafe provides a relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Every third Wednesday of the month 10:30 – 12pm, Queen Margaret’s Hall, 53 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 14. See page 42 for solutions.
LINLITHGOW & BO’NESS PROBUS CLUB - We are a friendly and sociable club for retired and semiretired men and women. We meet every second Wednesday morning from September to May in Linlithgow Rose Social Club. Tea/coffee is available from 10.00am followed by a wide range of interesting talks. We also have occasional outings, meals, musical activities and fun games mornings. Visitors and potential new members are very welcome. Details and the current programme are available at www.bolinprobus.org
LINLITHGOW SPORTS CLUB - A friendly club with lawn bowls, squash and tennis on offer. For more info go to www.linlithgowsportsclub.com
LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www.linlithgowspeakers.org. uk. Guests are always welcome.
LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT ART GROUPMixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums. Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks. Meet Tuesdays 7-9pm in the Community Hub 49 at the old library. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members. Contact Brian E: brianmcdonagh1948@ gmail.com T: 07909 577272 or Margaret E: magsbruce1@bluehyonder.co.uk or T: 07906 021875. Facebook – Linlithgow & District Art Group
WEST LOTHIAN DADS OF NEURO DIVERSE
CHILDREN - A support Group for Dads and Granddads of neuro diverse children, providing a safe space to talk about the additional challenges and benefits we face.
We meet up at 7.00pm on the last Thursday of every month at Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AL. You can Join the Whatsapp group by messaging Richard on 07788 583445
WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Primary School (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk
SAMBALISTIC - A friendly bunch of people covering all abilities and ages, enjoying drumming/percussion together. Practice - Thursday evenings during term-time at Linlithgow Academy (7.30 - 9.30pm). All instruments supplied. No musical knowledge required. We offer performances throughout the year. You may have seen us at local galas/fairs! Why not come along and have a go? Or if you wish to discuss an event, just turn up on Thursday or email sambalistic@live.com
LINLITHGOW FLORAL ART CLUB - A friendly group who meet on third Wednesday of each month (Sept to May) in the Rose Social Club, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, 7:30 pm. Come along, bring a friend and sit back and enjoy an entertaining and colourful demonstration by a qualified demonstrator, followed by refreshments and a chat with your friends. All designs created in the demonstration are raffled. Contact Pamela Galloway for details, E: pjgalloway.18@gmail.com or T: 07742 060877.
WINCHBURGH ART CLUB - We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall.
Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk
WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES – AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL - Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today! No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media.
W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com
TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW - WednesdaysLongcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm - 9.45pm. Annual Membership £12.00 [Under 18’s £6.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere. The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland. For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com
W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk
WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see;
W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317
E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com
T: 01506 844274.
LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.309.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Any players with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us on Facebook.
CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com
GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for adults across West Lothian to increase arts engagement in a non competitive, expressive and inclusive way. Promoting independence, confidence and good mental and physical health through dance, music and song, visual arts, creative writing and cinema. Contact: generationarts.info@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239.
MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@westlothian.gov.uk
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit : westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.
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A technical error meant that last month’s crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle clues.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU
ON PAGE 28
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A tight, lean, and mean 90-minute film feels like a relic from the past, as most mainstream films screening in our local cinemas typically clock in around the twohour mark.
However, writer David Koepp and director Steven Soderbergh have chosen to challenge the status quo with their latest spy thriller Black Bag, a 93-minute espionage tale that is immaculately paced and is a true nail-biter. George Woodhouse, magnificently portrayed by Michael Fassbender, is tasked with finding a mole suspected of betraying the nation by selling a valuable piece of software. However, when his wife, Kathryn Woodhouse, incredibly played by Cate Blanchett, comes under suspicion as the mole, George is tested as he must decide whether he is more loyal to his wife or his nation.
As the film progresses, we discover that this spy narrative resembles Tinker Tailor more than James Bond. Lines of dialogue referencing HMRC inject intrigue and suspense rather than groans of boredom. This film does not rely on massive chaotic shootouts or explosions to keep you engaged, although it does feature Pierce Brosnan screaming about how the software could end the war that Russia is embroiled in. While this isn’t much of an issue, I understand why making vague comments about the threat of Russia may seem like it’s dancing around the current political unrest and active conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, Black Bag is a genuinely thrilling spy film with incredible pacing, a brisk 93-minute runtime, and an engaging narrative.
In Cinemas Now
The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.
