There’s Only One Jimmy Grimble *** (2000, Robert Carlyle, Ray Winstone, Lewis McKenzie, Jane Lapotaire, Gina McKee) – Classic Movie Review 2795

This easy-going junior-league British footie comedy comes from director John Hay in 2000, complete with a well-meaning, too-cosy, simple story, and laid-back, appealing performances.

Lewis McKenzie plays shy, bullied Manchester schoolboy Jimmy Grimble who would do anything to become a football pro. But a lack of self-confidence on the pitch is standing in the way. His misery is compounded when his mum (Gina McKee) invites her latest moronic boyfriend to move in, rather than the man (Ray Winstone) she really wants.

But Jimmy’s luck changes when he meets an old bag-lady (Jane Lapotaire) who gives him a pair of magic football boots. Though understandably sceptical at first, it’s not long before Jimmy is scoring hat-tricks and even managing to help his coach (Robert Carlyle) rediscover his passion for the game. But before kick-off on the day of the school final, the boots go missing. Will Jimmy’s confidence desert him?

Footie-mad schoolboys will find Jimmy Grimble irresistible. Adults will find it has at least a little charm: certainly, being so laid-back, no one can accuse it of being seen to be trying too hard.

The story is by Simon Mayle, who also writes the screenplay with John Hay and Rik Carmichael.

© Derek Winnert 2015 Classic Movie Review 2795

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