DEEP DIVE: Mike Leigh, part 2 - Bleak Moments
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Yes, we're still on that Mike Leigh fix! Ok, we know his films so far are kitchen-sink dramedies that focused on complicated working class family life in an ever-changing city. The films so far (not named Another Year) are generally hopeful, if perhaps ambivalent, outlook on life. What if we looked at the bleaker moments? Would that illustrate a more well-rounded picture? I've selected films that are apparently more on the bleaker side of his filmography--I've not seen them--but let's see if what they said is true! Well, let's dive in.
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Films:
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Meantime (1983):
Synopsis: When one brother gets a job from their wealthy aunt, the other becomes increasingly jealous. (Note that this is technically considered a feature film but aired on TV)
Stream: FREE on YOUTUBE
Rent: Amazon Prime, Apple TV -
Naked (1993):
Synopsis: An unemployed Mancunian vents his rage on unsuspecting strangers as he embarks on a nocturnal London odyssey.
Stream: Criterion -
All or Nothing (2002):
Synopsis: In a poor working class London home, Penny's love for her partner, taxi driver Phil, has run dry. When an unexpected tragedy occurs, they and their local community are brought back together.
Stream: FREE on Tubi and FREE on Roku Channel
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If you have trouble finding ANY of these films, please let me know ASAP and I'll get you together. Please keep your RSVPs updated as soon as possible and not the day of, hopefully! Happy watching.
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Resources:
Every Mike Leigh movie Explained by Mike Leigh (SPOILERS! obvi)
Mike Leigh's profile on They Shoot Pictures Don't They