Five Pillars

Five Pillars is an insightful British independent movie from 2015 revolving around the complexities of modern life, questions of morality, and the struggle for personal freedom. The film was directed by Jon Rosling and features an ensemble cast including Tom Bott, Aaron Jeffcoate, and Adam Probets. The film's tension is built on the interactions and decisions of a group of common men as they grapple with individual moral dilemmas and the quests for personal fulfillment.

The film begins in the backdrop of the pre-Brexit era and introduces us to five characters navigating through the trials of day-to-day life. The title "Five Pillars" is symbolic, echoing the pillars of faith in Islam, notwithstanding the film's holistic portrayal of every aspect of life — love, religion, ethnic relations, morality, and social precedence.

Veteran actor Tom Bott portrays the role of Terry, a man struggling to reconcile his past and seeking redemption through his current choices. Bott's portrayal of Terry is authentic and relatable, painting a vivid portrait of a flawed, raw human being trying to mend his ways and garner control over his life. Seeing his progression throughout the film and the choices he makes forms a crucial aspect of the plot.

Aaron Jeffcoate as the character Danny brings to the table an enthusiastic and youthful performance. Danny is a young man entangled in a web of socio-political complexities and personal disillusionment. He keenly represents the contemporary young generation's dilemmas and striving to find identity and purpose amidst the chaos.

Adam Probets is the heart-warming Kieran, a morally upright and patriotic army veteran returning from war-torn Afghanistan. His struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and societal integration post his service allows the viewer to delve deep into the psyche of soldiers and the personal battles they fight long after the war is over on the field.

The characters of Terry, Danny, and Kieran set the stage for a film that is not just about their individual lives but a larger portrait of the society they inhabit. The narrative expertly intersperses them within the socio-political landscape and cultural diaspora, bringing forth a piercing analysis of the roots of social estrangement and moral struggle.

Director Jon Rosling successfully juxtaposes the personal stories of these characters, unveiling their divergent paths. He strings together their seemingly disparate life stories into a vibrant tapestry of interconnected dramas that quench the audience's thirst for a gripping narrative and thoughtful reflection. Stylistically, the film pays homage to British classical cinema with its strong characters, engaging dialogue, and beautifully shot landscapes. Yet it boldly steps into addressing contemporary societal issues, making it a compelling watch for audiences across the globe.

Five Pillars experiments with a nonlinear narrative, often skipping forward in time and back, which succeeds in holding the viewer's attention and curiosity. The screenplay, penned by director Jon Rosling himself, is an exploration of the individual vs. group dichotomy—a theme that resonates well in the high-tension plotline.

Ultimately, Five Pillars is more than just a movie - it's a resonating lens into social reality. The exploration of ethnic relations, the moral code of the common man, and the search for individual identity are all significant themes of the film, resonating with audiences who identify with the struggle for personal freedom and societal acceptance. The complex characters, excellent performance by the cast, and the poignant narrative makes it a must-watch.

In conclusion, Five Pillars is a deeply human story exploring the struggle for redemption and freedom. Its character-driven narrative and the sincere performances by the lead cast provide a cinematic experience that is engaging and thought-provoking. The portrayal of multicultural Britain and the moral dilemmas faced by the ordinary man are explored realistically, making it a significant contribution to independent British cinema. The movie is a testament to the fact that cinema has the power to reflect upon the struggles of the human condition and the constant quest for meaning and personal liberation.