Real (2019) film review
Real, is exactly what it says on the tin. This film delivers a raw, and accurate representation of real life. Through the events of Kyle and Jamie, this film is both beautifully uplifting, and completely heart shattering.
The past is an every present threat to the future in Real. Written and directed by co-lead Aki Omoshaybi (Kyle), this picture also features fellow lead Pippa Bennet-Warner (Jamie). They portray two people pursuing a budding romance, whilst struggling with poverty, and their own daily battles. Their blossoming romance, is authentically awkward, and sincere to watch. This warm, stretched naturing aura extends to the relationship between Jamie, and her son Felix (Taye Matthew). Both displaying clear chemistry from the outset.
I can’t express how incredibly refreshing it is, to see a romance so grounded in reality, and true to its surroundings, especially one filled with such hardships. This picture is definitely not like the ones you see coming out of Hollywood, and for this very reason it excels to a higher level.
With a running time of just 76 minutes, Real, really isn’t long enough to properly process its third-act transformation into the melodrama it was hinting at. This works in nothing but the films favour. The transition that it was suggesting, would have strayed this narrative away from its original realistic approach: a film that doesn’t ignore or diminish the hardships of working-class life, and single parenthood, but highlights them for all to see. As it is, the most compelling and impressive aspects of this film, is the quality of acting from the two leads.
Aki Omoshaybi, displays a breathtakingly brutal depiction of an unemployed man wanting more. Unable to properly deal with the trauma of losing his younger brother, Kyle sets down on a path of self destruction. Only to find a reason for a better self, in the eyes of Jamie. Omoshaybi, is at times amazing in this feature.
Pippa Bennet-Warner, the woman Kyle finds himself gravitating too. Bennet-Warner, portrays a recovering alcoholic single mother. In a constant battle with herself, Jamie must battle with her own demons in an attempt to keep custody of her son. What Bennet-Warner displays, can be described as nothing shy of excellence. From the very start, every second she spends on the screen, you see the glimmer of pain she won’t allow herself to recover from. Whether it be through her delivery of dialogue, or simple presence. The audience sees, and feels what she is going though, and roots for her from the start.
I can see why some viewers may have taken again this film. I honestly can. It’s seemingly unpolished, and occasionally too obvious execution begs the question of what if? What if it had a higher budget? Why if it had a slightly better script? However to me, these apparent flaws do nothing but link the picture, oh so more accurately to the people itself is trying to portray.
Once you become familiar to these features, and start to see them for what they can add, you begin to see what remains. A raw, genuine story about class, (un)employment, social practicalities, and dealing with trauma. One, that massively succeeds in the profound wholeheartedness of its writing, even if not in the specific lines delivered. It’s the emotions, and reactions behind the dialogue that hold the most impact on the audience.
Real, suggests that when we begin the lonely journey to seek out a partner, we sometimes, very often are looking for that magical person. Who will rescue us from our own misery, and shed some light on our world. When I’m fact, they can only give so much as a helping hand. Implying that the reason why so many relationships fail, and are doomed from the outset: how can you be happy with anyone else, if you’re not truthful or satisfied with yourself?
Real, is a subtly emotional, original take on a sprouting relationship. A film that explores the struggle, and true weight of balancing turmoil, social circumstances, and employment. Displaying the real, and often hidden effects of breadline living.
Certain scenes in this picture felt a little rushed at times, and the dialogue was occasionally predictable and cliche. But, this film was a very good turnout for a directional debut. Real, was a brilliant film. Featuring relatable characters, you couldn’t help sympathise with. Following their paths on redemption, recovery, and accepting who they are. Aki Omoshaybi, is one to watch for both acting and directing. And we should definitely keep our eye out, for Pippa Bennet-Warner in the future.
I would recommend this film.
3.5* 7/10
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