Review of A Single Man (2009) by Kim B — 12 Apr 2016

A somewhat morbid story which follows Colin Firths quest to discover whether there is any life after death, following the tragic loss of his partner in a winter accident. With only the shoulder of his best mate to cry upon, herself seemingly suffering from a mid life crisis, there appears to be a very bleak future ahead.

As the characters resort to booze, fags, and feigned suicide attempts as a result of their depression, there appears no way out of this downward spiral as they reminisce about their failed lives. That is until former 'Skins' favourite Nicholas Hoult is thrown into the equation to add some toyboy interest for our lead character, and subsequently delve into the taboo subject matter of a homo erotic pupil teacher relationship.

As the bond grows ever closer, we dare to even contemplate that there may even be a glimmer of happiness sneaking into the script. Alas, come the ending, normal service is resumed as we are treated to a continuation of the misery in a very sudden climax.

Unfortunately, some questions do remain unanswered but in a way this works well with the impact of the hard hitting ending signifying that one can never predict what is around the corner, or generally speaking, life itself.

Cleverly done and acted well by an A list of British celebs, but this oozes appeal for toffee nosed critics and is never going to be a spectacle which the everyday party goer would be enthused by if faced with the already daunting prospect of a lonely night at home.