Gaz Groeneweg

First time around I thought this was just another rubbish arthouse film amongst a slew of rubbish arthouse films typical of the late 90s. But somehow it managed to occupy a place in my mind over the years and so I gave it a recent review. The redemption arc is a little predictable but it had a way of holding my attention until the end. Interesting choices are made with regards the cinematography - editing, film stock, scene composition, cheap and threadbare sets. It has a consistent aesthetic that I was glad to witness. It is a beautiful portrayal of a working class existence. The entire cast does a great job of portraying the abject sadness of their lives. The protagonist Billy Brown is a pitiful and unlikeable man. He is controlling and narcissistic and demonstrates some antisocial traits. And yet, somehow I found myself liking and caring for him all the same. His awfulness is balanced out by the tenderness of the acting student who inexplicably falls for him before trying to guide him to a better ending. The mysteries of their lives are slowly and completely revealed and I found myself feeling for almost everyone in this film. What I especially love about this film is that it has heart. In the space between the broken, wounded and painfully lonely characters emerges truth, genuine feeling, and a few good laughs.