Keira Knightley Stars in Netflix Thriller ‘The Woman in Cabin 10’

Keira Knightley takes on a gripping role in the new Netflix thriller, The Woman in Cabin 10, which premiered on March 7, 2024. The film, based on Ruth Ware‘s bestselling novel, blends classic mystery elements with modern psychological thrills, captivating viewers with its intense narrative.

A Journalist’s Desperate Quest

In the film, Knightley portrays Laura “Lo” Blacklock, a journalist facing challenges in her career. Lo, known for her powerful reporting on NGOs and courageous women in Kurdistan, is in need of a compelling story amid a backdrop of corruption. When Anne Lyngstad (played by Lisa Loven Kongsli) approaches her to cover a charity event for a foundation that assists cancer patients, she jumps at the chance. This opportunity includes a luxurious three-day yacht voyage on the Aurora Borealis to Norway for the gala dinner.

However, Lo’s lack of yacht etiquette quickly becomes apparent, particularly when she encounters her ex-boyfriend, Ben Morgan (portrayed by David Ajala), who is now the event’s photographer. After an awkward dinner, she accidentally intrudes into a neighboring cabin, only to find a mysterious woman in a hoodie. This encounter sets the stage for a chilling night ahead.

Unearthing Dark Secrets

The tension escalates when Lo hears unsettling noises from Cabin 10, followed by a splash, and later spots what appears to be a bloodstain on the yacht’s balcony. Despite her attempts to alert the crew about a potential incident, they find no evidence to support her claims. The situation intensifies as it is revealed that the guest originally assigned to Cabin 10 had canceled just days prior, raising doubts about Lo’s credibility.

“The film captures a blend of Agatha Christie-style mystery and contemporary psychological tension,” said director Simon Stone. “It challenges the audience to question what is real and what is imagined.”

As the narrative unfolds, Lo remains determined to uncover the truth, even as those around her begin to doubt her sanity. The film expertly marries elements of classic whodunnits with the psychological complexities of modern storytelling. Director Stone, known for his work on The Dig, effectively uses the yacht setting to enhance the film’s atmosphere, creating a claustrophobic feel that heightens the suspense.

Despite the strong premise, some critics have noted that the supporting cast, which includes talents like Guy Pearce, Art Malik, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Hannah Waddingham, is underutilized. It falls on Knightley to carry much of the film’s emotional weight, and she delivers a compelling performance that keeps audiences engaged.

The Woman in Cabin 10 is now streaming on Netflix and is rated for viewers aged 16 and older. With its blend of intrigue, suspense, and a strong lead performance, it promises to draw in fans of both thrillers and classic mysteries.