BEFORE he unleashes zombie-themed musical comedy Anna and the Apocalypse on audiences in a few months, it’s worth reflecting on Glasgow-born writer-director John McPhail’s previous film – a good-natured, big-hearted rom-com with generation-traversing appeal.
James (Tyler Collins) is a kind 25-year-old man with a penchant for wearing cardigans and spending his spare time hanging out with people his granddad’s age. Why? Because he became a live-in care home handyman so that he could be there for his beloved granddad, Jim (Jim Sweeney), who helped raise him.
When his grandad sadly passes away, James is left stuck in a bit of a rut, but accepts what is a rather rewarding life spending time in the company of the older people he views as kind and generous, much to the bewilderment of newly employed nurse Jen (Lucy-Jane Quinlan), to whom he takes a shine.
Living and working under the watchful eye of strict care home manager Miss Thompson (Maryam Hamidi), James soon hatches a plan to go on a trip to Sea World with three of his favourite residents – Malcolm (Richard Addison), Joan (Alison Peebles) and Nancy (Deirdre Murray) – while also trying to win Jen’s affections.
There’s nothing world-changing or flashy about this likeable old-fashioned little film, but it works because of McPhail’s sincere directorial touch. He showcases his talent for working our tear ducts with a wordless opening montage evoking Pixar’s Up, as it depicts James growing up and spending precious time with his grandad before being left feeling lost without him.
The film’s humour is borne out of seeing the funny side of the everyday, “it comes to us all” life. It’s a little too sitcom punchline-esque for its own good at times, but it’s just sharp enough to get away with it.
Anyone who has had experience with visiting loved ones in a care home will find a lot to recognise here in its perceptions about odd behaviours and quirky mannerisms, repeated stories and distinctive personalities – the general ups and downs of care home life. Peebles is a highlight as Joan, whose telling of tall tales brings unexpected poignancy in a late stage reveal.
In the tradition of many a Hollywood rom-com, the plot contrives to bring James and Jen together as they head off on the inevitable road trip. Will they grow closer? Will life lessons be learned? There are no medals for guessing.
But while this distinctly Scottish mini-adventure doesn’t really go anywhere you aren’t expecting, there’s nevertheless something genuine and charming, breezy and endearing about the way it’s told.
The film is playing exclusively at Cineworld Renfrew St, so take in its charms there while you can.
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