Directed by James Marsh, Shadow Dancer follows Collette McVeigh (Andrea Riseborough), an IRA member who agrees to spy for MI5 after a failed bombing in London. Clive Owen portrays her handler, Mac, who becomes entangled in a complex relationship with Collette. The film also stars Gillian Anderson as Mac's superior, Kate Fletcher. Based on Tom Bradby's novel, the film delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and the personal costs of political conflict.​