Like It Is

Like It Is is an engaging and heartfelt British drama, focused on the themes of personal growth, ambition, and authenticity. Released in 1998, the film is directed by Paul Oremland and stars Steve Bell, Ian Rose, and the legendary Roger Daltrey, lead singer of The Who.

The storyline follows two very different men grappling with the complexities of their relationship in the backdrop of the Blackpool and London gay scenes. Steve Bell stars as Craig, a young, forthright, and unsophisticated man living in Blackpool. He works as a doorman and spends his days brawling and boxing. Life is hard, stark, and mundane for Craig. Depression and ambivalence are an essential part of his existence on the seaside of Blackpool, a stark contrast to the bright lights and energetic environments of London.

Ian Rose stars alongside Bell as Matt, a successful and assertive yet empathetic music industry professional who navigates the incredibly high-paced and cutthroat music scene of London. Roger Daltrey plays Matt's boss Kelvin, an equally shrewd and ambitious business mogul whose primary concern is the success of the company and maintaining his monetary and professional edge in the dog-eat-dog world of music.

When Craig and Matt's paths cross, their lives take a turn that neither of them could have anticipated. A chance encounter in Blackpool ignites the tense and passionate relationship, a connection that acts as the heart of this movie. The formative experiences of these two characters as they explore their feelings for each other and their navigation of the prejudice and problems that come along with it form the crux of the storyline.

The film is an expert exploration of contrasting worlds - Matt's glittering and glamorous life amongst the rich and successful in London starkly contrasts with Craig's working-class existence in Blackpool, emphasizing their dramatic personal and background differences. However, as Craig begins to venture out of his comfort zone and into Matt's world, viewers see the pain, effort, and confusion within both of them as they navigate this relationship in their respective reality.

The film delves into not just a relationship but also the concept of masculinity and identity in a society that can often be unaccepting. Craig, being a straight-acting gay man, struggles with self-acceptance and internalized homophobia. At the same time, Matt's world in London, despite being more liberated and accepting, comes with its own set of pressures and demands.

Like It Is showcases raw and compelling performances from its lead cast. Steve Bell delivers an impressive performance as the tough and brooding Craig, while Ian Rose gracefully portrays the ambitious and complex Matt. Together, their on-screen chemistry brings alive the characters' tense relationship, scored brilliantly with a stellar soundtrack.

Roger Daltrey's role as Kelvin adds another layer to the narrative, bringing the ruthless music industry's realities into focus. Daltrey imbues the character with a discernable degree of cynicism and shrewdness, offering a closer look at the off-stage drama seen in the music scene.

The film's gritty narrative is supplemented by its atmospheric cinematography, which brings to life not only the vibrant streets of London but also the striking contrast of quiet and stark Blackpool. The backdrop itself becomes a metaphor for the struggles and differences faced by Craig and Matt.

Like It Is, true to its title, mirrors the real-world situation, making no attempts to romanticize the fact that people's experiences can be vastly different based on their socio-economic status, their environment, and their own personal struggles. The film is a sobering reminder of the societal pressures that can hinder personal expression and authenticity.

Despite its gritty realism, the film is not without its moments of tender emotion. The romantic subplot between Craig and Matt serves to humanize the characters and make their struggles relatable. The movie ultimately delivers a story about self-discovery amidst the harsh realities of life, love, self-acceptance, and ambition.

In essence, Like It Is is a poignant portrait of the exploration of identity and love, filled with emotional depth and authenticity. It is a moving and intense drama for anyone interested in movies that are not afraid to confront societal norms and explore nuanced character relationships. The strong performances and distinctive setting make this film a standout offering in British cinema.