Film Reviews by RW

Paynes film is set in the depths of winter, and the snowy landscape reflects the frozen emotional lives of the main characters, who gently, touchingly, thaw out as they reveal some of their histories to each others, risking vulnerability and pain but gaining support and affection on the journey. It also points up the division and privilege that exists and enables the privilieged and stupid to "get on" in life, whilst bright but poor kids will end up as cannon fodder. It's set in the 1970's and looks and feels like a 1970's movie - in a really good way. Its a long movie, but not a second is wasted. Great casting, great acting and it's also very funny in parts. You're in for a treat.

I found this a thought provoking and unusual film about mother daughter relationships. It explores the impact of grief when Marions mother dies, and her depression on her daughter Nelly. There's a magical twist in the film which is incredibly powerful and touching.

Who couldnt have seen the final scenes in Breaking Bad, and not wondered what might happen to Jesse? El Camino gives you the next few days of Jesse's life following his escape. His friends, Skinny Pete and Badger, do what good friends do - take him in, let him rest, persuade him tactfully to take a shower (even though that provokes a terrible flashback moment for Jesse) and see him on to the next stage of his journey. The performances are excellent throughout and the photography underlines the emptiness and deadness at the heart of America's broken dreams.