The debt that must be paid. It’s remarkable that this is the sole film Anthony Neilson has directed, as he also penned the script and his writing credits are few. It's a genuine loss because The Debt Collector is an impressive work—a bleak and unsettling portrayal of British life that lingers in your mind. Billy Connolly portrays Nickie Dryden, a former prisoner who attempts to rebuild his life as an artist after marrying upon his release. However, he’s relentlessly pursued by a police officer, Gary Keltie (Ken Stott), convinced that Dryden's past misdeeds should never be forgotten. At its core, the film explores the consequences of one's actions and a warped sense of justice. From the beginning, it establishes itself as a tragedy, reminiscent of Shakespeare—certainly not a lighthearted experience for those in this part of Edinburgh! The color photography (Dick Pope) is striking and contrasts with the story’s severity, while Neilson demonstrates inventive camera techniques that complement the strong performances from his two leading actors. The film delivers an impactful blow, immediately captivating your attention but also demanding considerable thought. It's a sadly overlooked movie that should be discovered by more fans of tough British films. 9/10 Note: Subtitles may be necessary for viewers unfamiliar with British accents.

Source on TMDB