Nil by Mouth – Classic Film Review 380

Actor Gary Oldman turns writer and director in 1997, and comes up with an explosive humdinger of a film based on his own early experiences of working-class life on council estates, in the pubs and on the streets of Deptford, south London.

Oldman spins an inflammatory, riveting story centred on an abusive petty crook (Ray Winstone), his embattled wife (Kathy Burke) and her heroin-addicted brother (Charlie Creed-Miles). Oldman doesn’t put a foot wrong in a perfect script, with acres of funny and heartrending dialogue in a barrage of four-letter words, punctuated by moments of terrifying domestic violence.

His filming style is ideal too – all in extreme close-up and dark-toned, grainy documentary-style realist cinematography by Ron Fortunato. Oldman and his team certainly capture the flavour and atmosphere of working-class life on south London council estates.

With gob-smacking acting, especially from Burke who won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, it’s like EastEnders on acid.

Up to 2103, after this promising debut, it’s Oldman’s only film as director or writer.

(C) Derek Winnert 2013 Classic Film Review 380 derekwinnert.com