To understand the enduring appeal of The Servant , one must first grapple with its deceptively simple premise. The film introduces us to Tony (James Fox), a wealthy, somewhat aimless young aristocrat who has just purchased a house in London. He requires a manservant to maintain the property and manage his domestic life. Enter Barrett (Dirk Bogarde), a polite, efficient, and seemingly subservient man who appears to be the perfect employee.