The Gist:
Eve (Emily Browning) escapes one night from a psychiatric hospital and meets an aspiring musician James (Olly Alexander). Together, along with James’ guitar student Cassie (Hannah Murray) they form a band.
The Review:
Originally conceived as a side project to writer/director Stuart Murdoch’s band Belle and Sebastian God Help the Girl, despite the glum mood of the protagonists, is as cute as musicals get. Spontaneously (as most musicals do) the cast break in to song and dance without a seconds notice. The songs are catchy despite the subject matter and for anyone who has at least tried to break in to the arts, whatever category will understand the character’s dilemmas. All the elements are there, love, betrayal, friends falling out etc. However in a twist I did not see coming, the film also touches on personal psychological issues as well. In this case, anorexia and depression. There are times when the movie takes a turn to the dark depressing side but the explosive musical numbers brings it back up again. The cast are great and likeable in their respective roles, kudos goes to Browning for undertaking such a difficult task.
The Verdict:
If you love musicals, this is right up your alley. Some editing and script issues aside, this is a treat made extra watchable by the talented cast.
Certificate: 15
Starring: Emily Browning, Hannah Murray, Olly Alexander
Director: Stuart Murdoch
Running Time: 111 minutes
DVD Release Date: 27 October 2014
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