Numblock Reviews

Control (2007)

Black, Bleek, Beautiful: A compelling insight into depression!

[9/10 · 7 January 2008]

This film is simply brilliant. It explains a lot to the viewer of the isolation and confusion of depression which is an issue not talked about in society today. Whether you are a joy division fan or not this film is a must see because of the heart rendering story of a lost soul called Ian Curtis. There is so much to say about this film that the only way to really understand is to see it!

It has to said that Sam Riley's Performance as Ian Curtis was breath- taking! It was like watching Ian Curtis on stage, and as well he done the singing which was just like listening to him.. so credit where it's due! Samantha Morton who played Ian's wife (Deborah Curtis) was fantastic, she acted really well and gave a real sentiment to the film.

The direction was very good, using the lighting of black and white to create an ultra depressive feel to the movie which was very relevant and gave a real substance to the movie!

It's a film that can't be forgotten because of its content and powerful acting. Something special that captures the situation perfectly, and truly is a compelling insight into depression and how it effects a person and people around them.

It's a Free World... (2007)

A very relevant film that portrays a very dark side to society!

[8/10 · 7 January 2008]

This film captures perfectly one of the many faults of capitalism, it portrays an extremely sad situation of the desperate struggle that some people have everyday to earn money. In this case it follows the exploitation of foreign workers who came to England (London) in desperate search of work, and the lengths they will go earn money. The central character (Angie) played by Kierston Wareing is a self employed recruitment agent an ambitious and vibrant women who wont take no for an answer, she has a certain cheek and charm that is compelling and shows us some level of kindness, but also has a darker side which she has no problems in showing to people. Her friend and flatmate (Rose) played by Juliet Ellis is portrayed as the more rational minded and frankly kinder person, who relapses that sometimes it's not always about the money. An inevitable twist of faith comes for Angie where she is put in the position of victim, but does this change her views on life?

It is very well directed, showing the viewer the dull and bleak industrial estates and caravan parks of London which really suits the story and the depressive feel of the script.

Ken Loach and Paul Laverty done a great job with this film and like most of Loachs films is a striking and damning account of the depression to be found in working class England.