This film follows Charles Heath (Tim Key), an eccentric lottery winner who lives alone on a remote island and dreams of getting his favorite musicians, Herb McGwyer / Nell Mortimer (Tim Basden and Carey Mulligan) respectively, back together. His fantasy turns into reality when the bandmates, who were former lovers, accept his invitation to play a private show at his home on Wallis Island. Old tensions resurface as Charles tries desperately to salvage his dream gig.
Others to round out the cast are Sian Clifford as Amanda, Akemnji Ndifornyen as Michael, Steve Marsh as Peter, Luka Downie as Marcus, Kerrie Thomason as Marie and Arron Long as Tour Guide.
This was directed with dry wit and quirkiness by James Griffiths ("Royal Wedding" (TV movie) '10, "Cuban Fury" '14, "Charity Case" (TV movie) '16, "Delilah" (TV movie) '20) plus TV and a short. Even though this director only has one other feature film to his credit, his list of TV movies and other TV has certainly served him well. His staging and pacing is spot on as is ability to encourage his actors to strive to 'find' their characters with conviction. It was equally written with heart and humor by Tom Basden ("Brave Young Men" (TV movie) '09, "Very Few Fish" (TV movie) '13, "Plebs: Soldiers of Rome" (TV movie) '22) plus TV and a short, and Tim Key (TV and shorts). Neither writer has any feature film work when it comes to writing, however, they have enough TV movies and other TV and shorts between them to make up the difference. Certainly since these writers were the two main stars in this movie, it definitely caused this to be more powerful than otherwise. If this is their first feature film, I would like to see what they could do with writing another feature film, since this was well thought out and was moving and forced these individuals to dig deep in coming to realize their past in order to obtain a happier present. The only issue with this was that there were a couple of areas that were slightly disjointed, but otherwise was amazing. The acting by all three of the lead stars, and even the supporting cast was effective and endearing
If you're into small, independent films, this is the film for you. This was well written, directed and acted with compassion, passion and style all the while bringing humor in the form of dry wit and was amazingly entertaining.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG-13 99mins.
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