Small Time

It came to my attention that I hadn't seen anything by Shane Meadows, so thought I'd make an effort to start at the beginning. This is alright. It's short, blackly comic and hints at something deeper and more unpleasant beneath the surface. Its main strength is in the natural performances and dialogue among the cast, but the efforts to push on with what plot there is don't really come to fruition. I struggled with the wigs on show. I'm interested to see how Meadows' work progresses from here.

Compelling scenes of ordinary families and people living their lives and trying to figure things out, portrayed with a lightness which sets them apart from the depressing Ken Loach-style drama genre. The dialogue-based scenes feel very natural and spontaneous, with good performances. The story works, just. Shane Meadows shows his promise, bringing comedy and verve to the ensemble. The only thing I would have wished for is for it to go on a bit longer.

As a first feature, it is commendable. Personally though, it is what it is and it is difficult to say a great deal about it hence this short review.