Ellen

Ellen is a 2016 British drama that delves into the gritty and unglamorous side of adolescence, quickly engaging its audience with a coming-of-age story that avoids the common tropes. The protagonist, Ellen, is brilliantly portrayed by Jessica Barden. Barden's portrayal of the 14-year-old Ellen, with her hard exterior and vulnerable heart, will likely both move and surprise you. Yasmin Monet Prince and Joe Dempsie also offer superb supporting performances.

Directed by Mahalia Belo and featuring a screenplay by Sarah Quintrell, the film is not just a profound exploration of teenage life, but also a delineation of socio-economic realities and their impact on individual lives. It plays out within the confines of suburban London, where poor living conditions, derelict houses, and broken families are the norm rather than the exception. This backdrop heightens the film's rawness and authenticity, making the characters' experiences feel tangible and close to home.

Ellen, the titular character, is a young girl stuck within the vicious cycle of poverty. She is estranged from her mother, who is largely absent throughout the film, which represents a significant portion of Ellen's struggles. Her life, marked by neglect, poverty, and witnessing acts that no girl her age should, is devastatingly real. Ellen, however, proves herself to be a survivor, not a victim, frequently displaying an impressive amount of resilience and strength.

Simultaneously, Ellen forms a close friendship with Kayla, played commendably by Yasmin Monet Prince. The two girls, largely left to fend for themselves, find solace and understanding in each other’s company, adding an element of sweetness within the tough narrative. Their friendship is depicted in its purest and raw form, and it's clear from their underprivileged shared backgrounds that their bond is genuine and deep.

Joe Dempsie plays the role of Jason, a twenty-something man who crosses paths with Ellen and forms an unconventional and complex relationship with her. His character is enigmatic yet enticing, evoking a variety of emotions in viewers through the progression of the film. Dempsie’s nuanced and layered acting only accentuates the depth of his character.

Ellen's plot never ceases to surprise you, keeping you on the edge of your seat as these characters navigate hardship, friendships, and the hurdles of growing up. The narrative is impressively constructed, skillfully blending facts, emotions, social context, and intense realism.

One of the notable things about Ellen is its shot selection and cinematography, brilliantly handled by Chloe Thomson. The camera carefully captures the essence of distressed life in the underbelly of London, intensifying the film's somber emotions. The movie's visual narrative is dynamic and doesn't shy away from displaying the ugliness of Ellen's world in broad daylight. The aesthetics of the film are raw and unfiltered, making the settings and characters more tangible to its viewers.

The film’s sound score, crafted by Matthew Herbert, intuitively touches upon the highs and lows within Ellen’s life. It’s meticulously used to boost the narrative’s intensity and often evokes an emotive response, even without dialogue.

In summary, Ellen is a hard-hitting, engrossing, and socially-relevant film that expertly touches upon several themes revolving around adolescence, socio-economic disparities, and survival. It's an emotionally charged drama that keeps viewers riveted through its intriguing plot twists and well-drawn characters, urging them to consider the harsh realities of those living on society's fringes. Whether you're watching this for the masterful performances, the engaging story, the stirring music, or the captivating visuals, Ellen is a movie that warrants your attention.