Review of Another Year (2010) by Curtis J — 30 Jan 2011

Mike Leigh's films are prime examples for the merits of British film and always beg the question of why our friends across the pond don't get better distribution in America. 'Another Year' is a heartbreaking and hilarious film that will be tragically under-seen by audiences, so if you get the chance you should definitely run out and see this lyrical film.

Jim Broadbent and Ruth Sheen are delightful as the kind and calm Tom and Jerri. The pair share knowing looks that are almost as hilarious as the wacky people they interact with. But Lesley Manville steals the show as the pitiful Mary.

She is a bundle of sorrow, desperation, and neurosis; at once you root for her improvement while also wishing she could just get over herself. The conflicting reactions she inspire are a testament to her brilliance.

But Leigh's direction and screenplay are also well worth noting. On the directing side, Leigh makes strong tonal choices and knows just how long to focus on each character, exactly when to turn the conversation or when to cut to another character.

And his script is full of rich dialogue which the actors clearly relish (that is, in their warm yet restrained British way, of course.) The movie has an overall feeling of warmth, but there are enough moments of serious reflection to ground the whole production in reality.

A superb film!