ALL OR NOTHING
Released: October 25, 2002
Most people that go to the movies aren't even aware of the genius of Brit director Mike Leigh. But look at his output... "Naked", "Secrets & Lies", "Topsy-Turvy" and "Career Girls"... All amazing films and yet barely seen by the masses. I strongly recommend "Secrets & Lies" and "Career Girls". Add "All Or Nothing" to the list now. Leigh has written and directed another slice of life so realistic that you'd think it was a documentary. Leigh regular Timothy Spall stars as unhappy taxi driver and unhappy wife of Penny, who is running out of patience with her marital situation. Their daughter Rachel cleans in a home for elderly people, and their son Rory is unemployed and aggressive. The joy has gone out of Phil's and Penny's life, but when an unexpected tragedy occurs, they are brought together to rediscover their love. "All Or Nothing" is set on a London working-class housing estate over a long weekend, and also tells the stories of a range of Phil and Penny's neighbors, some of whom become involved in the family's lives, and all of whom experience an emotional journey. What makes a Mike Leigh movie different is that he cares about his characters. They are wriiten to be multi-dimensional and complex. There is more depth of character in a Leigh movie than dozens of Hollywood bubble gum movies combined. The cast, comprising Lesley Manville, Alison Garland, James Corden, Ruth Sheen and Sally Hawkins among the many others all give it their best. It's work by directors like Mike Leigh that affirms why I go to the movies in the first place. Chances are you'll have missed this and other Leigh films in the theatre but definitely make sure you visit your rental store and treat yourself to the works of this great director.
128 Minutes
United Artists/MGM