A man's voice reads a poem over a shot of boys playing on a beach. Our interest and emotions are engaged from the start. The visual story-telling is very strong - so we are aware that Frank is a man riven with past grief and present disappointments. He decides to attempt swimming the English Channel and is joined by a supportive gang of mates but without the knowledge of his wife - a wonderful performance from Brenda Blethyn (naturally.) The relationships are sketched in as you watch through railings, through water, through reflections in mirrors and windows. Although the characters are familiar - each one is distinct and well-played by a great cast. Peter Mullan is heart-breakingly good - depicting a strong man challenged and broken is a hard thing to get right, but he is completely credible. It is a slow-moving, almost poetic film. Thoroughly satisfying.
Review of On a Clear Day
