LFF: At the movies

Big movies continue to come fast and loose at the 65th BFI London Film Festival, including a couple of films that weren't announced much at all. George Clooney came along for the premiere of his new film The Tender Bar, and the new Joaquin Phoenix drama C'mon C'mon was last night's Surprise Film. Alas I didn't see either one, and will be waiting for regular press screenings in due course. In the mean time, this is what I've been watching...

Belfast
dir-scr Kenneth Branagh; with Caitriona Balfe, Jamie Dornan 21/UK ****
Kenneth Branagh returns to his hometown to write and direct a warmly involving autobiographical tale about growing up during the Troubles in the late 1960s. The story strikes a nice balance as more of a nostalgic ode to his parents than a dark political drama. The setting adds edge, and gives the strong cast some terrific scenes to play, but what lingers is the warm family connection.

The Phantom of the Open
dir Craig Roberts; with Mark Rylance, Sally Hawkins 21/UK ***.
A likeable crowd-pleaser, this lively British comedy recounts a true story with style. It's the iconic tale of Maurice Flitcroft, who blagged his way into the British Open despite never having played a round of golf. The story's appeal is that it really happened, and the characters spring to life in Craig Roberts' inventive direction. And it's a punchy reminder sieze every opportunity to chase your dreams.

Inexorable
dir Fabrice du Welz; with Benoit Poelvoorde, Melanie Doutey 21/Bel ***.
There's quietly gnawing suspense from the opening shots of this Belgian drama, which slides from earthy realism into full-on horror before its time is up. Director Fabrice du Welz creates a superbly queasy atmosphere, drawing us in with likeable characters and hints of mystery long before revealing any secrets. So even if it feels superficial, the film is a skilful merging of revenge fantasy with haunted house nastiness.

Hit the Road
dir-scr Panah Panahi; with Hassan Madjooni, Pantea Panahiha 21/Irn ****
Despite its sparky sense of humour, a sharp melancholy underscores this Iranian road movie. Writer-director Panah Panahi (son of auteur Jafar) takes the audience on a trip that feels both boisterously rambunctious and darkly momentous at the same time. The four family members stuck together in this car are each revealed to be complex, observant and deeply emotional, even as they maintain their ability to make each other laugh.

Full reviews of festival films will be published as possible and linked at Shadows' LFF HOMEPAGE 
For full information, visit BFI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL