Once Upon a Time in the Midlands
Dek, a decent but somewhat dull man, enjoys a happy existence with beloved girlfriend Shirley. They live together with her 12-year-old, Marlene: her daughter by the delinquent Jimmy, who flew the coop years ago and hasn't been heard from since. Dek loves Shirley so much that he proposes to her on national television.
Insights
Plot Summary
Jimmy is a small-time crook who lives in the Midlands and is desperate to win back his ex-girlfriend, Shirley. To do so, he plans to buy a replica of the sword Excalibur and present it to her at a medieval fair. However, his plans are complicated by Shirley's new boyfriend, Derek, who is trying to get his own revenge on Jimmy.
Critical Reception
The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its blend of dark humor, emotional depth, and strong performances. However, it was not a commercial success.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unique blend of gritty realism and dark comedy.
- Commended for strong performances, particularly from the lead actors.
- Some critics found the plot somewhat disjointed or uneven in tone.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's offbeat humor and the compelling character dynamics. Some viewers felt the story was a bit too bleak or unconventional.
Fun Fact
Director Shane Meadows initially envisioned the film as a revenge Western before shifting to a more contemporary Midlands setting.
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