The Selfish Giant

The Selfish Giant from 2013 is an intensely gripping and emotionally charged social realist drama directed by Clio Barnard. The film exhales authenticity as it explores the harsh realities of life in a deprived area of Northern England. This is made even more coherent through powerful performances by the two young lead actors, Conner Chapman and Shaun Thomas, that elevate a richly textured narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is poignant.

Primarily, the film revolves around two thirteen-year-old boys named Arbor (Conner Chapman) and Swifty (Shaun Thomas). Both the boys hail from troubled families and live in an impoverished area. Arbor is a volatile kid expelled from school due to his aggressive behavior while Swifty is more introverted, often becoming the prime target for local bullies. Despite the contrasting personalities, the duo form an inseparable bond, partly driven by their shared sense of alienation and partly by their circumstances.

The title, "The Selfish Giant", might hint at a children's fable. However, it's not the classic Oscar Wilde story but the metaphorical 'giant' that the narrative subtly hints, and that primarily refers to the adult world with its cruelty, selfishness and a ceaseless quest for money, which further engulfs and shapes the lives of our young protagonists.

A significant part of the premise establishes their plunge into the unhealthy world of scrap metal trading after they fall under the influence of a local scrap dealer, Kitten, portrayed brilliantly by Sean Gilder. Kitten is more than willing to exploit the boys' naievity and vulnerability for his benefit. Meanwhile, Arbor becomes obsessed with the idea of earning quick money, and Swifty finds himself drawn to the horses that Kitten owns; this becomes an outlet for him to escape the dreary realities of his life.

"The Selfish Giant" vividly translates to the audience the abject poverty, societal negligence, and the stark industrial landscapes that become the background of Arbor and Swifty's life. The almost barren setting of the film mimics the bleak existence of both the lads. Thus, it becomes a character itself, contributing significantly to the narrative's tone.

Conner Chapman and Shaun Thomas, though fledgling actors at the time, showcase mature performances that breathe life into their complex characters. Chapman's Arbor is a live-wire, a walking bundle of fury and frustration who simply can't sit still, while Thomas's Swifty is his polar opposite - quiet, calm, reserved, yet harboring dreams of a life beyond his horizons. Their naturalistic performances poignantly capture the real soul and spirit of both the characters, making the audience deeply invested in their story.

Supported by a strong, detailed script and a well-constructed narrative, the film succeeds in presenting a deeply moving and believable portrayal of the underprivileged society it represents. The dialogue is filled with local dialect and vernacular. The director, Clio Barnard, has endeavored to make sure that the film is as authentic as possible, and it hurts to see the harsh world the two protagonists are forced into because of the life circumstances they are in.

Sean Gilder, who plays Kitten, also deserves a special mention. He is ruthless, yet there's a sense of reality and unpredictability to his character. It's painful to watch him as he manipulates the boys for his good, displaying the ill treatment and exploitation that's a crude reality of the world.

Overall, "The Selfish Giant" isn't an easy watch. It's a dark, raw, and gritty movie that gives a stark look at the realities of life in an impoverished milieu, the survival instincts, the dreams, and the despair associated with it. It's a film that comes with a profound emotional impact and leaves a deep impression on the viewers about the complexities of life and human nature. It's about friendship, about the longing for betterment, and a sad commentary on the society that turns a blind eye towards its weakest, most vulnerable members. Yet, despite the darkness, the movie leaves you deeply moved, making you quietly acknowledge the resilience of the human spirit.