Filth

Bruce Robertson, a Detective Sergeant in Edinburgh, is introduced as a manipulative character struggling with borderline personality disorder. He indulges in drugs, alcohol, and abusive relationships, hinting at his self-destructive lifestyle.

Robertson engages in 'the games', a term he uses to describe his foul plots against his workmates. He particularly targets his mild-mannered friend, Clifford Blades, by prank calling his wife, which adds to the chaos around him.

Robertson’s opportunity for promotion arises when he is assigned to investigate the murder of a Japanese student, believed to be a hate crime. This assignment could be the key to advancing his career as he aims to become a Detective Inspector.

Robertson manipulates Bunty, Clifford's wife, by advising her to indulge the pervert prank caller to help apprehend him. This creates a complicated dynamic as Robertson secretly enjoys her attention while exploiting her ignorance.

As the investigation continues, Robertson's grip on reality weakens, leading to hallucinations and increased paranoia. His mental health issues intensify, revealing his troubled past and guilt over his brother's tragic death.

Determined to push through his investigation, Robertson continues using drugs, exacerbating his psychological problems. He also includes himself in the investigation while keeping Amanda Drummond, his colleague, out of the loop.

Robertson skillfully exposes Peter Inglis's sexual orientation, ensuring that Inglis's chances for promotion are sabotaged. This act reflects Robertson's unscrupulous tactics as he seeks to climb the ranks in his department.

It is revealed that Robertson's ex-wife, Carole, left him, denying him access to their daughter Stacey. This impact on his personal life fuels his obsession with the promotion he desperately seeks.

Robertson takes a drug and sex trip to England with Clifford, attempting to escape the mounting pressure of his professional and personal troubles. This escapade further highlights his reckless lifestyle.

In a desperate move, Robertson frames Clifford for the prank calls, leading to Clifford's arrest. This manipulation showcases Robertson's moral decline and his readiness to sacrifice relationships for personal gain.

After being suspended from the force due to Robertson's machinations, Peter Inglis tragically commits suicide. This event underscores the devastating consequences of Robertson’s ruthless behavior.

Robertson is captured and brutally beaten by Gorman and his gang, who are linked to the murder case. In a moment of desperation, Robertson manages to kill Gorman by throwing him out a window.

After the chaotic events, rather than receiving a promotion for his actions, Robertson is demoted to Constable. This twist reveals the ironic turn of fate as a rookie, Ray Lennox, is promoted instead.

Blades receives a tape of Robertson apologizing for his betrayals, reflecting Robertson's lingering remorse. This moment highlights the personal connections that Robertson has damaged throughout the film.

Towards the end of the film, Robertson attempts suicide by hanging, overwhelmed by his guilt and failures. His moment is interrupted by a woman and her child knocking at his door, leading him to break the fourth wall and bring a darkly humorous end to his turmoil.