Mischa Barton Shines in Double Indemnity: A Noir Masterclass at Nottingham Theatre Royal

Creating the dark and sinister atmospheric style required for an old Hollywood crime drama is a challenge in itself, but this gripping two-hour-plus performance delivered all that in spades with the crucial feels of intrigue and suspense providing numerous edge-of-seat moments throughout.

Based on the James M. Cain novel, the production delves into 1930s Los Angeles to tell a timeless tale of temptation, lust and greed, along with an unwavering desire to commit the 'perfect' crime.

The headline draw for this show is undoubtedly British-American actress Mischa Barton, best known for her breakout role in teen drama The OC, who is making her long-awaited stage debut.

She certainly put bums on seats as she stepped into the shoes of iconic femme fatale Phyllis Nirdlinger, offering a sultry, seductive and sensual performance that depicts the desperate calculation of a woman who feels the need to survive at any cost, even if it means killing her husband.

Alongside her is the excellent Ciaran Owens as eagle-eyed insurance seller Walter Huff, who opens the show as a confident professional before being reduced to a quivering wreck as the pair join forces to carry out a meticulous plan that dramatically unravels.

The first act is all about the chemistry created between the two main characters as they plot to murder Phyllis's unsuspecting husband Mr Nirdlinger in order to trigger the double indemnity clause for a whopping insurance payout.

The supporting cast is strong too, with the brilliant Martin Marquez bringing his perfect raspy tones to the role of claims investigator Barton Keyes, who, while looking into the case, becomes increasingly suspicious of foul play.

Sophia Roberts puts in a commendable showing as Lola Dietrichson, the young, innocent and somewhat naive daughter of the victim, while other notable performances include Gillian Saker (Nettie), Joseph Landon (Mr Norton) and Oliver Ryan (Mr Nirdlinger), who all showcased their talent by taking on varied roles.

With a minimalist approach props-wise, visually the production is a success, with the period costumes and dim lighting combining superbly to recreate the moody atmosphere of a mid-20th Century film set.

It doesn't matter if you haven't seen the original film, read the novel or are a newcomer to this particular genre, Double Indemnity is a stylish, atmospheric triumph which is guaranteed to keep you guessing until the very end.

Double Indemnity is showing at Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 14th February. For details and to book tickets, click here. For information on the show's other tour dates, click here.