A grim, intelligent and fiercely compelling film.

The author of the book on which it is based, Alexander Trocchi, who died a heroin addict, was once tipped to be the Scottish William Burroughs, and the film conveys his malignant view of life pretty accurately.

Whether you're talking about Young Adam the movie or young Adam the character, neither is very likable.

Amidst all the dropping of troosers and unbuttoning of blooses, there might well be a story going on, but you will be hard-pressed to follow it for long.