What a fantastic film. Treacle Jr is quite unlike any film I have seen! Hats off to Jamie Thraves and to the incredible cast for creating a real gem.
Despite such an evident contrast between the two lead actors, the realism portrayed by both Aidan Gillen and Tom Fisher is unmatched.
Firstly, you have Aidan's character of Aidan (perfectly suited), who is a kind, unknowingly funny, child-like adult whose mind seems to always be in overdrive. Despite having almost nothing, his character remains wonderfully optimistic.
Then we have Tom's character of Tom (very fitting); a sullen and inhibited man whose views are seemingly pessimistic.
Such a stark contrast between the pair makes for a very unlikely friendship... but as the film goes on, the audience realise that the impact they have on one another's lives is exactly what each needs in order to move on with their own lives; their desires are also incomparably different.
Aidan's acting was mesmerising; absolutely flawless. There was such a helpless naivety about his character that really intrigued me. A man who has such an optimistic view on a world that's so unkind to him.... His joy in such little things and his willingness to prevail. Yet there is an underlying sadness that comes with his character; the harsh truth that his dreams are very much but a dream.
It made me overwhelmingly sad as the audience realise this, and Tom realises this, but he does not... Or perhaps he does realise, nevertheless his hope shines through. Either way, this aspect of Aidan's character made the ending so much more bittersweet.
I was smiling yet balling my eyes out at the same time.
Tom was also fantastic. His character was played so well that I'd forgotten the pair were actors. I really felt like I was watching a man who was constantly on the verge of breaking point. Both characters' endings left me feeling fulfilled yet empty... perhaps if you've seen it, you'll understand. If not, watch it!
Kudos to the two tremendously captivating performances and massive kudos to Jamie Thraves for creating such a beautifully moving film. I was sent on a real rollercoaster of emotions.
Not to mention, the film certainly follows its element of "black comedy" with its extremely funny moments in particularly dark, tense scenes.
This might just be my new favourite film.
Also, as I'm writing this in 2020, Aidan's character has taught me to cherish the positives. I aspire to have optimism and joy for the little things in life.
This film is one of them.
Review of Treacle Jr.
