Broken

A coming-of-age story set in urban London, "Broken" centers on 11-year-old Skunk who navigates the complexities of family, friendship, and the harsh realities of life. Her world is disrupted by a series of escalating events, including a violent incident involving her father and their neighbors. Skunk's innocence is challenged as she witnesses and experiences the darker side of human behavior around her estate. The film explores themes of loss, resilience, and the search for stability in a chaotic environment.

Broken received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its sensitive portrayal of childhood and its strong performances, particularly from its young lead. The film was noted for its realistic depiction of working-class life and its subtle exploration of complex social issues. While some found its pacing to be slow at times, the overall sentiment was that it was a poignant and effective drama.

• Praised for its authentic portrayal of childhood struggles and resilience.
• Commended for strong performances, especially from the young cast.
• Noted for its realistic and sometimes unflinching look at urban life.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's emotional impact and the strong performances, particularly that of the young protagonist. Many appreciated its realistic depiction of family dynamics and the challenges faced by children in difficult environments, though some felt the story was a bit somber.

Won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer for Rufus Norris. Nominated for the British Independent Film Award for Best Film.

The film is based on the 2008 novel of the same name by Daniel Clay.