Director Joseph Losey's classic study of class warfare, adapted for the screen by Harold Pinter from Robin Maugham's original novel. Spoiled young British aristocrat Tony (James Fox) buys a handsome Georgian townhouse and employs Hugo Barrett (Dirk Bogarde) as his manservant. Initially appearing to settle in well to his new position, Barrett, however, soon begins to exert his influence over his master, subtly ingratiating himself whilst plotting his next move, much to the horror of Tony's fiancee Susan (Wendy Craig). As his influence becomes steadily more pervasive, culminating with the hiring of his 'sister' Vera (Sarah Miles) into a position in the house, Barrett's sexual machinations eventually lead to a complete role-reversal, as he finally attains domination over his master.