Review of Fish Tank (2009) by Anthony C — 23 Nov 2010
A hard hitting, impressive and admirably honest film. The story of 15-year old Mia is a tumultuous one as she tries to cope with the world she was brought up in, all the while trying to escape it. From the first 10 minutes alone you know that this isn't going to be a happy film. We are introduced to Mia as she practices dancing in a disused building, hiding it from the world that seems to view ambition as something to be ashamed of. As her mum's new boyfriend is introduces to her life.
This is an intense character study, and in that regard it is brilliant. Kate Jarvis (Mia) is fantastic considering that piror to this film she has never acted before. All the characters are believable and it is really engaging. However it felt a little bloated. It was slightly too long and couldn't maintain the intensity for the whole period. It deals with a multitude of controversial themes, and handles them easily taking them in it's stride without breaking a sweat.
Certainly an interesting and well crafted film, but not one I would be returning to any time soon. However the strength of the acting and the atmosphere through make this film worth a watch.
**** - 4 Stars.
This review of Fish Tank (2009) was written by Anthony C on 23 Nov 2010.
Fish Tank has generally received very positive reviews.
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