National Theatre Live: The Fifth Step
Opens March 14, 2026
Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden ("Slow Horses," Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, "The Responder") in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David Ireland.
SIFF year-round passes and vouchers are not valid for this screening.
After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five – the moment of confession – dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.
Finn den Hertog directs the provocative and entertaining production filmed live from @sohoplace on London’s West End.
- Director: Finn den Hertog
- Principal Cast: Martin Freeman, Jack Lowdon
- Year: 2025
- Running Time: 100 min.
- Screenplay: David Ireland
- Language: English