What’s it about: Joseph (Peter Mullan) is a middle-aged widower and probable alcoholic with few real friends and a predilection for violence. Running away from some local thugs he takes refuge in a charity shop run by Hannah (Olivia Colman – Peep Show) a timid catholic woman. Joseph is initially scathing of her goody two shoes altruism and blind optimism, but once the abusive relationship between Hannah and her brutal husband James (a sinister Eddie Marsan) becomes to much to bear, she looks to Joseph to become her protector.
Handbag Hearts: Almost everything. The acting of all three leads was superb, Olivia Colman made the move from daft comedy to bleak drama deftly, and Peter Mullan still manages to radiate charisma and warmth as dour drunk Joseph, even after you watch him kick his beloved pet dog to death. Actor Paddy Considine (Hot Fuzz, the Bourne Ultimatum)’s directorial debut is impeccably paced - the story never descends into hysteria or melodrama, nor does it become so claustrophobic that you can’t bear to watch. Even with such downbeat subject matter the film still manages to end on a hopeful, optimistic note. This is down in part to Considine’s light touch, and in part to Colman and Mullan’s ability to convey a whole spectrum of emotions with very few words.
What was bad: This is a film to immerse yourself in, but maybe not one to watch if you’re after a bit of casual escapism. The characters are so well portrayed that you totally loose yourself in their collective fates, which isn’t always a happy one, so it’s probably one to avoid if you’re feeling particularly downbeat.
Should you see it? Yes – you’ll still be thinking about this film weeks after you watch it, but just don’t expect to be skipping for joy as you leave the cinema.
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