Review of Looking for Eric (2009) by Richard R — 14 Jul 2009

I am probably not as clued-up on Ken Loach's work as I should be but I understand that he aims to produce realistic dramas based on the everyday life and troubles of normal people. Postman Eric, played with unerring realism and honesty by Steve Evets (yes, 'Steve' backwards!) is forced to confront a figure from his past whom he deserted in a less than manly fashion.

At the same time we are soon aware that he is far from the man in his own household as his two step-sons appear to be able to do whatever they want. Things come to a head following a road accident caused by our reluctant hero going the wrong way around a roundabout he has been using for over twenty years! A couple of things he has in his favour is his loving daughter and a circle of friends who rally round him and do their best to cheer him up.

Gradually, Eric sets about changing his own fortunes by facing up to his responsibilities and a chance encounter with his hero, footballer Eric Cantona, spurs him on to even greater things. This is a social film about middle-age, community, righting wrongs and morals which features beautiful comments on capitalism via FC United (the team formed as a rebellion to Manchester United's new American owners) and the attitudes of youth today.

Highly recommended, Looking for Eric benefits every step of the way from its frank honesty. A must-see.