Archive for April, 2011

The latest film from Mike Leigh focuses on the complexity of family, human relationships, and life all brought to life by his story and cast. Another Year features an outstanding performance from Lesley Manville whose performance I was utterly bewitched by. How she lost out to Helena Bonham Carter at the BAFTAs is beyond me. I guess The King’s Speech just had the extra public momentum behind it.  

But, much like Archipelago, Another Year moves slowly, but persistently. In some ways, Another Year is very much a thriller: it’s certainly thrilling to watch. Perhaps this is down to Leigh’s approach to character development and the incorporation of lengthy improvisation sessions.

“You start with nothing,” Manville said. “Over time we create characters. Initially it’s a one-on-one thing. You sit down with Mike and talk about the sort of character you’re interested in. You create a back story, a history. The thing about working with Mike is that he’s not just employing you, you’re not reading a script. My character, Mary, is as much my creation as Mike’s. He’s steering and guiding, but a lot is being asked of you as an actor. It’s very creative, very collaborative.”

That sounds similar to the work we did on Self Made, which is perhaps part of the reason why I found the film so appealing. Regardless, it’s a film worthy of rewatching.