Review of Kes (1970) by Kate . — 02 Sep 2008
Socially-realistic is an understatement - this feels more like a documentary! I'm not an expert on life in the 1970's but when I was watching this it seemed as if it was pitch perfect - exactly how I would imagine that era to have been.
David Bradley is phenomonal as Billy. He is so focused and manages to give a compelling and 100% believable performance. The scene of him describing the training of Kes to his class was one of the most fantastic and gripping moments of cinema I have ever witnessed.
The symbolism of the film is quite clear - the kestrel being the representative of hope and freedom, and Damiens older brother Jud being the representative of what he is desperate not to become. The film starts out a little tedious, but as it develops it becomes a stunningly powerful depiction of young Billy's life, and his desperation to change it.
Wonderful.
This review of Kes (1970) was written by Kate . on 02 Sep 2008.
Kes has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
