Looking For Eric: Film Review

2009-06-13 10:38:22

A comedy-drama is a difficult thing to pull off. Here in the UK, they often turn out as comedies with a bit of drama, or drama with a bit of comedy.
Looking for Eric strikes a perfect balance. It's side-splittingly funny, but will also bring tears of compassion to your eyes. Looking for Eric is the story of a lonely postman, devoid of his wife, and with two teenage sons running riot. The story is a tale of him taking hold of his life before it slips through his fingers. His idol, Cantona, is there every step of the way to guide him.
    
Despite the media hubbub that's surrounded the great centre-forward, Cantona is in no way the star of this film. Yes he's the big name, and his performance is more than acceptable, but he is out-shined in every way by Steve Evets.
    
Evets steals the hearts of the audience
    
Evets is a man we've all seen before, but usually only on TV and other not-too-famous British films. Here he steals the hearts of the audience with his perfect portrayal of postman Eric. The chemistry between him and his friends is perhaps a little unrealistic in its solidarity, but it dares to dream, and is ultimately great to watch.
    
In parts the film's a little rough around the edges but this is more than forgiveable in a low-budget British film.Looking for Eric immediately makes you sit up and watch. There are loads of real laugh-out-loud moments, and heaps of humility. It's an accessible a film as anything from mainstream Hollywood, but without any notion of tedious predictability.
    
If you see any film this week, make it this one
    
Looking for Eric strikes a chord with contemporary society. It manages to explore some really very big issues, yet still remain engaging and hilariously funny. Never does the audience feel bogged-down or overcome by what's on screen. It's a feel-good film in the true sense of the phrase, and in many ways I was sad to leave the auditorium. It's not easily done, but director Ken Loach and writer Paul Laverty have achieved this with a flick that's ripe for awards. If you see any film this week, make it this one. Then tell your friends. Superb!
    
Review: Alex Ward
    
Looking For Eric is showing at Nottingham's Broadway Cinema until 25th June 2009

    

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