Length: 18:08
Logline: A young lad is embarrassed by his brother who has learning difficulties.
I've had this film sitting in my bookmark list for months. It's alright, but I just couldn't bring myself to sit through it in its entirety until today. Drama's are always a hard sell anyways. I don't think anyone goes out to the pictures thinking "I really wanna go see a great drama tonight". However, for those of you who might think otherwise, this is a competent and emotional piece.
You can always tell a high quality production when a classically composed soundtrack plays at the beginning and that's what we get with this UK Film Council aided project. This is your fairly typical boy meets girl but boy is embarrassed by his disabled brother story. There is the pretty predictable 'brother can't even make a cup of tea' set up followed by the usual scenes where Simon, played by Sean Verey, is well pissed off with having the responsibility of looking after Mark, played by Michael Davis. That irritated emotion is heightened by the introduction of fit girl that works in a corner shop, Gemma, played by Ellie Paskell. How on earth can Simon impress this lass with Mark slavering and going off on a mad one all the time?
There are some nice intermittent scenes where the two brothers make light of the situation and share a connection. All roles are played really well, are believable and natural. The plot isn't overly original and in parts pretty predicable. The long length didn't help and my attention wained many, many times, as I've tried to review this on several occasions. But those things can be swept aside as this feels more like a film which showcases good performances and good production. This is broadcast standard so almost every element is of a high standard and that is reflected in the emotional content of the film. So even though the story isn't that gripping, and half the dialogue is teenage drivel talk, the film has heart.
Best Bit: Acting by all.
Worst Bit: Ugh, it's a drama. And it's a long drama.
Final thought: Wonder what's for tea tonight?
Read a condensed review of this film on Twitter here.
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