Filth

A British psychological black comedy crime thriller from 2013, directed by Jon S. Baird, based on Irvine Welsh's novel of the same name. The film follows Edinburgh police detective sergeant Bruce Robertson (James McAvoy), a cynical and manipulative officer aiming for a promotion to detective inspector. Immersed in drugs, alcohol, and promiscuous sexual relationships, Bruce employs any means to discredit his colleagues, including Peter Inglis (Emun Elliott), Dougie Gillman (Brian McCardie), Ray Lennox (Jamie Bell), and Amanda Drummond (Imogen Poots). Tasked with investigating the murder of a Japanese student, his vices and escalating mental disorders, including hallucinations and paranoia, hinder his focus on the case. His friendship with Clifford "Bladesey" Blades (Eddie Marsan) becomes strained as Bruce anonymously harasses Bladesey's wife, Bunty (Shirley Henderson), with prank calls. As the plot unfolds, the reasons behind Bruce's destructive behavior are revealed, including childhood trauma from his brother's death and separation from his wife Carole (Shauna Macdonald). The film explores themes of moral decay, mental health, and self-destruction, blending dark humor with deep psychological aspects.