Backstabbing for Beginners

Uncover the truth. Betrayal runs deep in the shadows.

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Synopsis

Backstabbing for Beginners is a gripping political thriller based on true events, starring Theo James as Michael Sullivan, a young and idealistic United Nations employee who becomes entangled in the complex and dangerous web of corruption during the Oil-for-Food scandal. As he uncovers massive fraud and deceit within the organization, Michael must navigate a perilous path filled with moral dilemmas and harsh betrayals. The film explores themes of integrity, power, and the cost of standing up against systemic corruption, showcasing the challenges faced by one man trying to make a difference in an unjust system.

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Reviews

The critical reception of Backstabbing for Beginners has been mixed, reflected in its moderate scores across review platforms. On IMDb, the movie holds a rating of 6.3/10, indicating a generally average response from viewers. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 41% approval rating, suggesting that less than half of critics gave the film positive reviews. The Metacritic score stands at 48 out of 100, signifying mixed or average reviews overall. Critiques often praise Theo James' earnest performance and the film's ambition to shed light on a significant but lesser-known international scandal. However, some reviewers point out that the narrative suffers from pacing issues and a lack of depth in character development. Variety mentioned that the film "offers an engaging premise but struggles to fully capitalize on its potential," while The Hollywood Reporter noted it is "a sincere yet uneven political drama." Despite its flaws, Backstabbing for Beginners stands out for illuminating a complex real-world corruption story with a personal touch, though it may not satisfy viewers seeking a more polished or thrilling espionage drama.