Writer-director Mike Leigh once again examines middle-class British angst, this time with the drama ANOTHER YEAR.
Leigh drops us into the world of Tom and Gerri, an upper-middle class couple that are happily married and dutifully employed. Tom is a geologist, while Gerri works as a guidance counselor in the public sector. Gerri works with Mary, an administrative assistant, who outwardly seems to be bright and bubbly, but upon further review isn’t so happy with her lot in life.
From time to time, Gerri invites Mary over to her home for dinner or drinks. This is where Mary finds herself the most comfortable, and also open to revealing her fears and inhibitions.
Mike Leigh films have never been heavy on plot, but ANOTHER YEAR really is nothing more and nothing less than a carefully observed character examination.
Tom and Jerri, played by Jim Broadbent and Ruth Sheen, serve as this drama’s foundation. Both provide wonderful, understated performances as well-adjusted professionals, parents and friends. They serve as our eyes and ears for understanding the issues that surround Mary, Tom’s friend Ken and his brother Ronnie.
In contrast, Mary is the film’s lightening rod. When Mary rolls into the dinner party, the summer cookout or just to pop in, she changes the atmosphere upon arrival. Mary is a difficult character, but is handled terrifically by actress Lesley Manville. Mary’s loose lips, nervous ticks and flirtation with Tom and Gerri’s son Joe pushes the limits when it comes to bearing an often annoying character. Yet through Manville’s eyes, and her weekend disposition, we can sense that these nuances are just the cusp of a deeper problem.
Leigh tells ANOTHER YEAR in exactly a year’s time, breaking down the film into four segments: spring, summer, fall and winter. By utilizing the seasons, Leigh alters the tone with each segment, and the emotional make-up of Mary. This choice also allows a smooth transition from segment to segment and some foreshadowing into our characters plights.
ANOTHER YEAR might not have as many grand things to say as past Leigh works, but it’s yet another brilliant dissection of everyday Brits.
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