Secrets and Lies (Mike Leigh, UK, 1996) August 19, 2006
Posted by Daniel Stephens in : Comedy, 1990s, Drama, Film reviews, Romance , trackbackDir. Mike Leigh; screenplay by Mike Leigh; starring Brenda Blethyn, Timothy Spall, Phyllis Logan, Claire Rushbrook, Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Mike Leigh’s somewhat wayward 1996 film is, nevertheless, a powerful but subtle examination of family and class. Whilst it all comes together at the end, the first part of the film is a little unfocused making it difficult for the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the narrative drive of the film. However, the excellent performances are what brings ‘Secrets and Lies’ to life. Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Timothy Spall are both excellent, but it is Brenda Blethyn (who was nominated for an Academy Award for her role) who captivates, drawing the audience into a world of working class heartache and family divisions.
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