Richard (Jack Reynor) is an ordinary teenager living in rural Ireland. He spends his time hanging out with friends, playing rugby and enjoying life. His family life appears solid and his future looks good. But as the film’s title suggests, there is something else at play here…
Abrahamson’s previous two films, Garage and Adam & Paul, were bleak tales also, but found a fierce funny bone in their stories; this is as skilful in technical terms, but narratively ever so much more of a slog.
Partly improvised – and it shows – director Lenny Abrahamson and scriptwriter Malcolm Campbell have shaped a slight morality tale which starts to feel overstretched even at 87 minutes. Despite Reynor’s Boyzone charisma, it’s hard to care what Richard might do next.
What Richard Did is an engrossing and intelligent drama that throbs in the mind for hours after the final credits.
Seriously good.
Measured and thoughtful, What Richard Did rests on the charismatic shoulders of Jack Reynor who maintains our sympathy as his world spins and his true character is tested.
A surprising, impressive, satisfying watch.
A tough, impactful film that offers a sometimes uncomfortable but always gripping examination of cause and effect.
We know by then what Richard did – but who he is, and what bad dreams torment him, is something that this economical and quietly brilliant film only needs hint at.
The film is a striking portrait of a social class and a low-key allegory about a country in moral crisis.
With brilliant economy Abrahamson implies that in the case of his nation, as with his film’s protagonist, all that glitters is not gold.
Lenny Abrahamson’s stark portrayal shows the heartrending turbulence of living in guilt.
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow from Friday January 11, 2013, until Thursday January 17, 2013. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/
Edinburgh Filmhouse, Edinburgh from Friday January 25, 2013, until Thursday January 31, 2013. More info: www.filmhousecinema.com
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