Scrapper is a British independent film that breaks away from the archetype of kitchen sink dramas, offering a colorful and humorous take on a working-class story.
Oppenheimer is an extraordinary film that skillfully delves into the complexities of grief and the process of reconnection.
Blue Beetle is a new DC superhero movie that pleasantly surprised me with its focus on family dynamics and character development.
Deep dives
Scrapper: A Refreshing Take on Working-Class Stories
Scrapper is a British independent film that breaks away from the archetype of kitchen sink dramas, offering a colorful and humorous take on a working-class story. The film centers around Jason, a father who reluctantly returns to his rural hometown to care for his 12-year-old daughter, Lola, after her mother's passing. Directed by Charlotte Regan, Scrapper explores themes of grief and reconnection from a child's perspective, introducing magical realism and an alternative narrative style. The film showcases the dynamic between Jason, played by Harris Dickinson, and Lola, portrayed by newcomer Lola Campbell, in a heartwarming and authentic way. Scrapper provides a fresh and unconventional approach to depicting working-class lives, deviating from typical British social realism films.
Oppenheimer: A Masterful Exploration of Grief and Reconnection
Oppenheimer is an extraordinary film that skillfully delves into the complexities of grief and the process of reconnection. Directed by Charlotte Regan, the movie centers around Jason, played by Harris Dickinson, who reluctantly returns to his rural hometown after the death of his daughter's mother. As he tries to reconnect with his 12-year-old daughter, Lola, played by Lola Campbell, Oppenheimer gently explores themes of loss, healing, and identity. The film offers a unique perspective through the eyes of a child, providing a refreshing and thought-provoking narrative. Dickinson's performance is powerful and moving, and Lola Campbell's portrayal is captivating and impressive. Oppenheimer has garnered critical acclaim, receiving numerous awards and high praise for its poignant storytelling and exceptional performances.
Barbie: Topping the Charts with its Delightful Adventure
Barbie continues to captivate audiences with its enchanting storytelling and delightful adventure. The film follows Barbie and her friends on a journey filled with excitement, humor, and heart. Directed by a talented team, Barbie embodies the spirit of perseverance, friendship, and empowerment, making it a hit with audiences of all ages. The film's success at the box office reflects its appeal and enduring popularity. Barbie's imaginative storytelling and positive messages have resonated with viewers worldwide, solidifying its position as a beloved and iconic character in pop culture.
Meg 2: A Wild and Entertaining Adventure
Meg 2 takes audiences on a thrilling and wild adventure that defies expectations. Directed by Ben Wheatley, the film deviates from the typical British cinema portrayal of working-class lives, offering a unique and vibrant perspective. Harris Dickinson delivers a brilliant performance as Jason, a character grappling with the trials of adulthood while trying to reconnect with his daughter. The film's energetic pace and dazzling visuals create a mesmerizing experience, making Meg 2 a remarkable addition to British cinema. Wheatley's direction and Dickinson's portrayal make for an exciting and captivating film that surpasses traditional storytelling norms.
Blue Beetle: A Surprisingly Enjoyable DC Superhero Movie with a Focus on Family
Blue Beetle is a new DC superhero movie that pleasantly surprised me with its focus on family dynamics and character development. The film follows Jaime Reyes, a law school graduate who discovers a mystical scarab that transforms him into the armored superhero Blue Beetle. As Jaime grapples with his newfound abilities, he must also deal with the pressures of saving his family's home and navigating the dangerous intentions of industrialist Jenny Cawd. What sets Blue Beetle apart is its smart script, blending comedy, action, and fantastical elements with deeper themes of identity, heritage, and societal pressures. It's a refreshing addition to the superhero genre and a genuinely enjoyable watch.
A Lie with Me: A Gripping Drama about Grief and Relationships
A Lie with Me is a gripping drama that explores themes of grief and relationships. The film centers around a character named Jason, who returns to his family after his father falls ill and their financial situation becomes dire. Faced with the threat of losing their home, Jason is unexpectedly bonded to a biotechnical scarab that grants him superhuman abilities. Meanwhile, he must navigate the intentions of industrialist Jenny Cawd, who seeks to exploit his powers for her own gain. What sets A Lie with Me apart is its focus on family dynamics and the complexities of human connection. The film delves into the struggles and sacrifices that individuals face in order to protect their loved ones. It's a story that balances fantasy and real-life challenges in a thought-provoking and engaging way.
This week sees Mark holding down the fort with fellow professional film watcher Robbie Collin.
In a special twist, both Mark and Robbie sit down for a brilliant conversation with British-acting-legend-in-the-making Harris Dickinson to discuss his sunny, new, kitchen-sink drama, ‘Scrapper’.
They also debate the merits of ‘Strays’, an R-rated comedy featuring the voices of Jamie Foxx, Isla Fisher and Will Ferrell, who play a motley crew of stray dogs, who team up to get revenge on one of their owners; ‘Lie With Me’, a thoughtful French film about an author who, on returning to his hometown for the first time in decades, meets the son of his first love; and ‘Blue Beetle’, DC’s latest offering, which sees an alien scarab choose a young, college graduate to be its symbiotic host, bestowing him with a suit of armor capable of extraordinary and unpredictable powers.
Time Codes (relevant only for the Vanguard - who are ad-free!):
06:46 Lie With Me Review
15:44 Box Office Top 10
33:33 Harris Dickinson Interview
52:47 Strays Review
58:32 Laughter Lift
01:02:44 Blue Beetle Review
01:09:08 What's On
You can contact the show by emailing correspondence@kermodeandmayo.com or you can find us on social media, @KermodeandMayo
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