Postcards From London

Postcards From London is a dramatic, hypersensual British film serving as a perfect showcase for the dynamic talent of Harris Dickinson. This 2018 release was written and directed by Steve McLean and is a thought-provoking exploration of artistry, identity, and sexuality.

The story follows Jim, portrayed by Harris Dickinson, an eager, idealistic young man leaving his rural English home for the intoxicating, neon-bathed streets of Soho, London. With starry eyes and a captivating innocence, Jim plunges into the city’s buzzing underground scene. Dickinson executes this role with immense dedication, demonstrating his aptitude for embodying complex characters with a distinct air of authenticity.

The plot takes an intriguing turn when Jim finds himself in the world of the “raconteurs,” a group of high-class male escorts who specialize in post-coital conversation. This involves them educating their often wealthy, art-affluent clients on various aspects of arts and culture. Jonah Hauer-King plays one of the self-proclaimed "muses”, and along with Alessandro Cimadamore, they navigate their clients through esoteric topics and high-brow discussions - a profound departure from the conventional image of their profession. These interactions lead to thoughtful, charming, and often quite humorous exchanges that add a unique dimension to the film.

Domestic and international art – its creation, perception, curation, and glorification – is central to the themes of Postcards From London. Steve McLean leverages this thematic exploration to establish a highly stylized world where art becomes an immersive, living entity. The movie blends the plot’s intrigue with an inventive aesthetic, enlivened by vibrant hues, theatrical lighting, and creative visuals that mirror the eclectic energy of London’s underground art scene.

As Jim delves into the life of a raconteur, he develops a psychosomatic condition, called "Stendhal Syndrome,” where he faints in the presence of beautiful art. This unique condition lends a surreal edge to the narrative, contributing to the film's overall enigmatic feel.

The raconteurs' missions to bring art, culture, and high-strung gossip to their encounters create a museum-like atmosphere of exploration. This is closely tied to Jim's quest for understanding his identity and sexual discovery in a world that is both intimidating and awe-inspiring—making for a film that goes beyond surface-level appeal, pushing deeper into philosophical discussions on art, love, and life.

Accentuating the film's dramatic narration is its breathtaking cinematography by Annika Summerson, rendering Soho's art and nightlife scene as a vibrant canvas itself. The scenes are colorfully saturated, with heavy emphasis on shades of deep, evocative reds and other rich tones, perfectly reflecting the passionate, flamboyant London gay scene and giving the film a distinctive, artsy appeal.

Moreover, the film’s unique tonality is enhanced by Julian Bayliss' eclectic score that imprints an ethereal mood over this captivating narrative — a perfect match for McLean’s cinematic landscape that meanders between reality and illusion.

Postcards From London is a remarkable tribute to the vibrant, volatile world of art. Steeped in visual poetry, the film transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, providing a distinct viewing experience that challenges, intrigues, and entertains in equal measures.

Moreover, it delineates an interesting meditation on the fluidity of identity—particularly, the concepts of masculinity and beauty. While the narrative navigates darker elements of survival and loneliness, the film retains an underlying optimism, with each postcard from London symbolizing a snapshot of Jim's journey of self-discovery and growth.

Postcards from London encapsulates the spirit of art and identity within its luminous tableau, championing the unexpected beauty in chaos and confusion. It inspires an appreciation for the arts and encourages viewers to broaden their horizons by looking beyond conventional norms.

Harris Dickinson’s charismatic performance, an intriguing narrative, and the deeply symbolic exploration of art, make Postcards from London demanding of a viewer’s time and contemplation. The film serves as a striking piece of cinema that lingers long after the credits roll, prompting viewers to reflect on the transformative power of art and its profound impact on humanity.