Rye Lane (2023)

A beautiful film. Perfectly shot, acted and written, with a refreshingly positive depiction of life in London, as well as life in love.

Every character is interesting, yet grounded in realism. The chemistry between Jonsson and Oparah is profound, and it gives their relationship a palpable dynamic which enables them to navigate the ebbs and flows of their journey in a convincing yet compelling way.

Idiosyncrasies are subtly expressed, dialogue is sharp and clever, and the events which unfold elicit every emotion, from hilarity to frustration; from awe to anger.

The cinematography is smart, versatile and purposefully complementary to each scene. The soundtrack, and cameos, are a welcome bonus to what is, in totality, a very well rounded film which left me hoping could go on a little longer. Kudos to Raine Allen-Miller, David Jonsson and Vivian Oparah.

My only qualm was that we had to go to the cinema to watch this at 10.30 in the morning. This was the last and only showing, after just one week of being released?! Yet the uninspired, sensory violation that is Ant Man 3 feels like it has been out for forever, obnoxiously occupying every screen and time slot. It’s ironic to think that films that are actually good, and leave you feeling good – even inspired – seem to be so under-appreciated and under-represented in theatres and the wider film industry. Anyways, that’s why I’m here to leave my first ever review. To advocate for this film and all it represents!