That this was the Guardian's "British Film of the Year" for 2006, probably tell's us more about the state of the British film industry than it does about the quality of this film. It is a decent product in many respects, great performances from Johnny Harris (Derek), Georgia Groome (Joanne) and Lorraine Stanley (Kelly), effectual editing, decent camera-work, lighting and sound. Sadly, none of this can redeem a rather nasty "urban" story filled with tawdry stereotypes and sham 'gangland' moralistic overtones. The pacing of London to Brighton is however, quite excellent, and looking at the out-takes, proved to be the film's salvation. The story is predictable, but for me generated more than enough interest to keep watching right through till the end.
That Johnny Harris went on to appear in Atonement is somewhat ironic given the brutal reparation forced upon him here.
That Johnny Harris went on to appear in Atonement is somewhat ironic given the brutal reparation forced upon him here.