WHILE this film is still relevant, it is very much a statement of its time (i.e. Britain in the early Eighties). David Leland's story follows three British soldiers being put through mind-unhinging training as part of a new phase of military research which is modelling itself on the US example.

Like the three main characters, we, the viewers, are suddenly confronted with a confusing situation, insufficient information, and a rising sense of fear. As the film unravels and we begin to have a glimmering as to what is going on, the realisation dawns that knowing what is happening is not the same as understanding it, and that motives that appear simple and straightforward can be twisted and contorted nonetheless.

Clarke's direction makes the most of a minimal set, using bars, cages, sterile environments and acoustics to echo the forces that are being manifested; the real trap is the system itself. "Ideology is the only enemy" we are told, and this is made abundantly clear. The officers in their cosy red and gold living room seem out of place; it is the harsh lights, the torture rooms, and the violence which appear normal. The only way to fight the system is from within.