Break

Break is a 2020 crime, drama, and sport-themed movie, directed by Michael Elkin and has been intricately laid out to give audiences an adrenaline rush featuring billiard sports spiced up with thrilling crime segments and dramatic twists.

The racy plot of the movie is centered around one of the popular indoor games worldwide - Snooker and follows the protagonist, Spencer Pryde, played by talented actor, Sam Gittins. The protagonist is a gifted, aspiring, and determined young cue sports player who is trying to find redemption and a breakthrough in his troubled life by plowing through the competitive playing fields of Snooker.

Spencer is a wayward youth, having trouble keeping his life on track. He is constantly pulled towards the dangerous world of crime even while trying to step out of it, thanks to his association with local gangster Ray, portrayed by Terri Dwyer. Spencer's life is tangled up with the conflicts of navigating through the gritty world of crime while trying to make a name for himself in the world of Snooker, showcasing the dichotomy of his struggles perfectly.

This crime sporting drama unfolds in the backdrop of a vibrant yet seedy London underworld. Although Spencer wishes to steer clear from this underbelly, the influence of the city's dark corners is inescapable, adding an intense element to the narrative.

However, despite the grim and edgy environment, Spencer gets his ray of hope in the form of mentorship from a former Pool champion, Vince, played by the highly accomplished actor, David Yip. He instills in Spencer the belief that he can turn his life around through an unflagging focus on the game. Vince's role is pivotal in guiding Spencer, not just in mastering the game of Snooker, but also in his effort to regain control over his life.

Filmmaker Michael Elkin beautifully captures the tension and excitement inherent in a game of Snooker, mirroring the protagonist’s tumultuous life journey off the billiard table. Both aspects are filled with challenges, unpredictability, risks, strategy, and importantly, the intense battle of controlling and sinking the right balls despite the pressure.

Adding gravity to the story is the tense backdrop of London’s harsh, urban landscape contributing to the rough and raw charm of the narrative. The cityscape plays an unwitting character in the movie, setting the tone for Spencer's gritty life experiences.

The element of Snooker provides a platform for the exploration of various themes like dreams, hopes, redemption, crime, and human relationships. Additionally, the game in the storyline also does justice to the sports lovers amongst the audience by maintaining authentic displays of Snooker skills and knowledge, thus blending the worlds of crime-drama with sports.

The gripping narrative is bolstered by strong performances from all the cast. Sam Gittins, in particular, delivers a convincing commentary on life’s struggle, ambitions, and the trials and tribulations faced by youthful spirit caught in challenging circumstances. Other cast members like Terri Dwyer and David Yip also shine with strong performances.

Under the fine direction of Michael Elkin, the movie "Break" offers an intense, energetic look into society's dark undercurrents whilst constantly tethered by the crimson-red snooker balls. The movie engages with its compelling storytelling, striking cinematography, and splendid performances, transforming a humble game of indoor sport into a riveting tale of struggle, crime, commitment, and ultimate triumph.

Break is more than just a sports movie or a crime drama; it is a powerful tale of overcoming personal demons and adversity. It is a story of human courage and determination in the face of life’s daunting challenges, rendering a gritty life narrative through the green baize of a Snooker table. This movie subtly communicates that life, just like a riveting game of Snooker, can often offer break points that can turn the tide if only one knows how to play the right shot at the right time.