Mike Leigh makes films that are an odd combination of reality and farce. Its supposed to be a slice of life, but somehow he must also make it interesting. In this case we have a "typical" lower middle class family consisting of mum, dad, and two daughters in their late teens. One daughter is alienated from the rest of the family. "Wow, this is fascinating", says I in my best mocking tone. Part of the intended charm of this movie is the cockney phrases (and sing-song delivery) that make up much of the dialog. I may be a yank, but I am also an anglophile and I lived in south London for three years. I understood every word, but I can tell you that no such dialog ever did, ever would, or ever could take place. Not in London, not anywhere in the world. Maybe that's the object. Make up some situations that are outside the realm of possibility. Who wants to see life as it actually is? That's boring. The trouble is, this is boring too.
Review of Life Is Sweet
