Strangeways Here We Come

Strangeways Here We Come is a gritty, darkly comedic British drama film, released in 2018. Directed by Chris Green and set in the raw, urban milieu of Salford in Greater Manchester, the film stars an ensemble cast including the talented Elaine Cassidy, the gorgeous Michelle Keegan, and the dynamic Lauren Socha. The intriguing title of the film takes its name from the metropolitan borough of Greater Manchester, Strangeways, and also cleverly references a music album by The Smiths, a band that also originated from Greater Manchester.

The movie is a brilliant blend of dark comedy and heavy-hitting drama, exploring the economic challenges and social tensions of life in a run-down council estate. It effortlessly traverses a variety of moods and tones, from moments of intense drama and crime thriller elements to a dark sense of humor that underpins the narrative.

Strangeways Here We Come introduces us to a close-knit community living in a council block named ‘The Towers’. The various characters are drawn from diverse walks of life and their interactions with each other help to build a vivid and richly textured portrayal of life in a struggling community. Each character is distinct and well-written, allowing the actors to showcase their skills in bringing their characters to life.

The primary plot revolves around a nefarious loan shark nicknamed 'Danny Nolan' and the community's collective action against his tyrannical reign over them. Through the ensemble of characters, the film narrates a story of desperate efforts to find a way out of the grim cycle of debt and the extreme measures they resort to, to free themselves from the clutches of their oppressor.

Elaine Cassidy delivers a compelling performance as 'Sinead' who is seen grappling with her own moral compass amid struggles. Michelle Keegan, known for her role in "Our Girl," takes on the character of ‘Demi’, a young woman with bravery and grit who stands up against the oppression. She portrays her character’s conflicting emotions and courage with subtlety and depth.

Lauren Socha, the BAFTA-winning actress from "Misfits," stars as 'Becky', an affordably honest and tough character with no-nonsense pragmatism. The dynamic between her and Keegan presents some of the film's most fascinating moments. The supporting cast also add a richness to the storyline, enhancing the plot’s complexity and depth.

The setting of Strangeways Here We Come is brilliantly captured, radiating authenticity and a raw sense of place. The grim tower block and its surrounding area provide a fitting backdrop for the drama that unfolds. The film delves fearlessly into the socio-economic issues plaguing communities such as this, striking a balance between the drama of the narrative and a poignant commentary on contemporary social problems.

In terms of its approach to storytelling, the film expertly employs a non-linear narrative. This device works to enhance the audience's engagement with the film, requiring them to piece together the details as the plot progresses. The narrative is further boosted by a dose of unexpected twists, contributing to the film’s thrills and adding a degree of unpredictability.

Director Chris Green's focus on character development and emotion is evident throughout the film. He shapes the narrative to challenge the audience’s opinions, expecting them to constantly reassess their sympathies for the characters. It is a testament to the director and the stellar performances from the lead cast that this shift in allegiances feels both seamless and natural.

One of the phenomenal aspects of Strangeways Here We Come is its soundtrack, which not only adds a unique flavor to the movie but also aptly complements the narrative. It's mostly indie rock, with songs that hark back to the glory days of the Manchester music scene, contributing to the film's overall Northern English vibe.

In closing, Strangeways Here We Come emerges as a gripping depiction of life in a downtrodden urban community. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate the juxtaposition of humor and drama, underpinned by a commentary on societal issues. The film is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and tenacity of people living under challenging circumstances, and it portrays this with a balance of delicate sensitivity and in-your-face grit. The performances by the leads are a true treat to watch, with each one bringing their distinguishing touches to this intriguing tale of survival and defiance amid daunting odds.