Tyrannosaur (2011)

Tyrannosaur is a deeply upsetting film, which is why I am not going to write much about it, as I fear that if I do it will put people off watching it, when in fact I urge everyone to do the opposite, because this is one of the finest films of last year, and a marvellous début from Paddy Considine who proves that he isn't just a talented Actor, but also a director to keep your eye on as well.

It's a simply story really, Peter Mullen plays a man who has anger issues, he's easily aggravated, he's consumed with guilt for former actions and generally not a nice man on the surface, with clear issues below the surface. One day when he has had enough he seeks comfort and hides from the world in a local charity shop where devout Christian Hannah (played by Olivia Coleman) works. Initially things are awkward between them as Joseph resorts to his usual abusive self and pushes her away, whilst we learn that Hannah is being abused at home by her husband (played by Eddie Marsan). Joseph and Hannah strike up a tenuous and unlikely friendship as the film explores abuse in all forms and the path to redemption, whether those who commit the acts feel remorse and such.

Olivia Coleman is stunning in this film, and I was quite taken aback, knowing her pretty much exclusively for Peep Show where she is a bubbly warm character, to see her as a victim came as a shock, I feel bad for her that more award nods haven't come her way, as her performance is genuinely heartbreaking. But I guess the film is pretty dark, and awards shows tend to shy away from that type of thing at times.

I don't want to give much away, as the main story unfolds in a perfectly timed way, everything slotting into place. There are some lovely side stories involving Joseph's neighbours and also a dying friend, but ultimately it is the central story and the relationship between our two main characters which really makes this film work. It's a simple story, told in a simple manner. Anything else wouldn't work. It's upsetting for certain, but it's a brilliant film that if you're in the right mood will pay dividends. I whole heartedly recommend it, and hope that the fact that it's depressing doesn't put anyone off, because it's simply a testament to the skill in the film making that the film has affected pretty much everyone who has watched it.