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This film written and directed by Joanna Hogg won the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize:Dramatic at Sundance. It’s set in the 80’s and is based on some of Hogg’s own experiences.
The story revolves around Julie (Honor Swinton Byrne), an aspiring film student from an affluent English family. She hosts a cohort party and meets Anthony, a sophisticated, opinionated and somewhat mysterious man. After an initial date at a tea room her first real relationship begins.
Playing her mother is Julie’s real life Mom, Tilda Swinton. In the midst of her love affair with Anthony Julie is regularly asking for money from her parents under the guise of film equipment needs. Suffice to say, the relationship becomes more complicated and toxic.
Tom Burke, who is new to me, is excellent as the intelligent lover who unabashedly takes advantage of the young film student. Tilda Swinton is solid as usual but the film belongs to her daughter and her addictive paramour.
This film is pretty dark but beautifully done. It’s little wonder that Martin Scorsese is one of the producers. It should make it to lots of screens in the months ahead and is worth your time if you enjoy artsy endeavors.
Interestingly, Joanna Hogg is busy at work on a sequel starring Robert Pattinson (“Twilight”, “Good Time”).
Although this is a fine effort it probably didn’t hurt its success with the jury that it features a character deeply involved in pursuit of filmmaking.
