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| Movie Review: On a Clear Day Alternate Title: Pride Goeth Before the Swim
Story: In recent years we have
had a spate of feel good flicks from the British Empire - The Full
Monty, Calendar Girls, Greenfingers, Billy Elliot, Saving Grace, East
is East, Little Voice, Local Hero and The Big Tease to
name a few. On a Clear Day falls right into this genre. After 36 years, ship builder Frank Redmond is
dismissed from his job mostly because he is stubborn and won't fall
into line with the no-nothings boss at his company. What's a 50 something
guy to do to fulfill his days and his soul? How does one get to repair
a father son relationship? How about swimming the English Channel? Frank
and the requisite ragtag group of kooky Glasgow friends go into training
to fix what ails them. Director Gabby Dellal allows
his main character to chew up the scenery and that works most of the
time. Screenwriter Alex Rose resolves the subordinate
characters problems in rapid succession towards the end of the film
as well as handing us a feel good ending for Frank and his son. Is this somewhat formulaic film worth your time?
Sure. What's wrong with a film that allows you to tear up a bit and
have a good time? Acting: Peter Mullen is one powerful
actor and is the heart and soul of this film. His son, played by Jamie
Sives is not only pleasant on the eye but is quite an actor.
Brenda Blethyn as the long suffering wife is perfect,
as always and the ragtag group of cronies, Sean McGinley, Billy
Boyd, Ron Cook and Benedict Wong are first
rate.
Predilection: None
Critters: Gulls
Food: Lots of food to eat when training or watching
someone train to swim the English Channel. Protein shakes, chips, Chinese
food, mashed potatoes, green beans, birthday cake, tomatoes and bread.
Soundtrack: Fun
Opening Titles: None.
Visual Art: Not much to see under the waters of the
English Channel
Theater Audience: A handful of happy theater goers.
Sappy Factor: 2
Quirky Meter: 0
Squirm Scale: 0
Drift Factor: I only drifted for a minute to worry
if I was crazy to leave the house while I was cooking a brisket - I
got over it.
Predictability Level: High
Tissue Usage: I got a bit teary eyed in this feel
good film.
Oscar Worthy: No
Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be just fine. For
some of Peter Mullen's other films try renting: The
Magdalene Sisters, The Claim, Miss Julie, My Name Is Joe, Trainspotting
and Braveheart
Length: 90 minutes
LOBO HOWLS: 7
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