The Spanish Prisoner is an intricate puzzle box of a movie.  Full of crosses and double-crosses, the film teases the audience into looking the wrong way while it goes for another slight of hand.   This was written and directed by America’s playwright laureate, David Mamet, who swam in similar waters with his brilliant House of Games. 

Steve Martin is amazing playing against type as a slick and slightly dangerous confidence man who targets corporate drone Campbell Scott.  A reperatory company of Mamet’s talented friends -- Ricky Jay, Felicity Huffman and Mamet's wife Rebecca Pidgeon included – give supporting roles verve and life.