Monday, September 26, 2011

MOVIE REVIEW ... SUBMARINE

 

Layout 1Submarine marks the debut Directorial feature of Richard Ayoade.  Gaining fame as an actor in cult TV series The I.T. Crowd, his quirky performances have provided him with a perfect off-kilter training ground.  Tackling the much used ‘coming of age’ genre with ease, he brings a fresh touch to a tale of a social misfit finding love in 1980’s Britain.

Welsh schoolboy Oliver (Craig Roberts) is a worrier.  Thinking his mother Jill (Sally Hawkins) is having an affair with the next door neighbour while his father Lloyd (Noah Taylor) sits at home depressed he aims to save their faltering marriage.  At the same time he begins a relationship with fellow schoolmate Jordana (Yasmin Paige), a strange girl with a unique perspective on life. The coming months test his resolve as he stumbles his way out of his eternal teenage inspired angst.

Unlike many of its type Submarine works due to its authenticity.  Based on a book by Joe Dunthorpe it’s easy sympathising with some of Oliver’s issues as he searches for identity and purpose in an increasingly confusing world.  In his parents he sees a frightening future of regret and lost opportunities and endeavours to not go down the same path.  Making his plight believable is Ayoade’s astute direction unafraid in showing the character’s darker sides.  They don’t inhabit a cosy-cotton wool world but one where raw emotions and mistakes are shown with little easy answers.

The performances from the cast are spot on and help to cover some the story’s unclear aspects.  Although set in the 1980’s very little of the era is shown or used to highlight its points.  This makes some of the character’s motivations a little murky despite the generally interesting story.  The striking cinematography is pleasing however with Wales’ stunning vistas captured in its many moods.  This adds to the overall atmosphere and introduces a new director showing exciting promise in fine form.

Whilst not actually adding much to the genre Submarine makes for arresting viewing.   With a stylish director and some good acting, it goes some way in establishing their creative credentials towards some equally potent future offerings.

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Movie Review Rating  7 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

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