Ali Abbasi directs Mehdi Bajestani, Zar Amir Ebrahimi and Arash Ashtiani in this serial killer drama where a female journalist in Iran faces sexism and cover-up in her search for a murderer of sex workers.

Based on a true story. Well crafted and pointed in it gender inequalities. Every female character is constantly at risk of violence in this society, the brutal sex murders are pretty much sanctioned by the authorities. Zero glamorisation – all are bruised, tired, unkempt. There’s a surprising amount of focus on the dull, devout killer and his home life. It makes for grim, depressing viewing and I wouldn’t rush to rewatch despite Holy Spider’s enthralling power.

6

Perfect Double Bill: A Hero (2021)

I write regular features about live comedy for British Comedy Guide here https://www.comedy.co.uk/people/bobby_carroll/features/