Keeping Rosy

Seeing the name - a film I hadn't heard of - I decided to watch. Of the 5 reviews I have just read 4 of the 5 tally with my feelings: the one that doesn't actually complains about what makes this film absolutely stunning. This film isn't a gore-fest, has barely any violence, very few characters and a very simple story line; on two occasions I was almost reduced to tears; I had my heart in my mouth and almost stopped watching at one point as I was starting to get traumatised (OK, a bit of an exaggeration...but crazy!). Anyone with children will know exactly what I mean. For a film to do that means it's worked. An easy 10 out of 10.

I have no idea why the reviews for this film are so low. I read them before watching and was a bit unsure as to whether to go ahead and watch it or not. However I am really glad that I did, as I found it to be an absolutely brilliant film. I was kept on the edge of my seat from start to end. The story line was exciting and not at all predictable. The films ending was fabulous and completely unexpected. The actors were all great, especially Maxine Peake, who continues to produce fabulous work. I would highly recommend this film, especially for anyone who enjoys Maxine Peake. It is another great example of the fabulous writers and actors we have in the film industry in the UK.

This English import is a totally original script with an electric performance by Ms Peake. Steve Reeves (no relation to superman; I'm very sure he has heard that one before). does a masterful job of writing and directing. His suspense devices work very well; the elevator, the tapes, the tape worker, and others. All very well done. A wonderful script can take a film a long way. Had elements of Psycho and various other thrillers, but extremely original in almost every way. The story of a lifeless woman brought to life by a baby; if just for awhile, is really very creative. Whenever I am having a bad day, I will think of this film and what a really bad day is really like. The suspense is palatable. Not since Hitchcock have I seen an English director with such ability. An excellent production from start to finish and I am looking forward to more good work from England's finest director.

Ignore all the puff pieces giving this a high rating(always do this on IMDb) I found this tense and stressful until I started to treat it as a black comedy and then it was enormous fun! Peake is at her white faced stressed best. Try to guess what's going to happen next! There's enough real London footage to give it character, and the isolation of high end loft style apartments is evident. Also the perceived sell out of Northerners betraying their roots down that there London....a treat.

I have to say I was completely blown away by this film. So affected, that this is actually my first ever review. I hadn't heard anything about it, and I'm glad I didn't. Dark, bleak and shocking, it's not an easy film to watch by any means. Superbly directed with an understated hand, the viewer is drawn into the clean, sterile and ultimately lonely world of 'Char'. Maxine Peake was just outstanding in her portrayal of a career woman, with nothing in her life but her job, and when she loses that, her life starts to spiral out of control. I usually hate 'career women are bitter and empty' type films, but not once did I not believe in her. She isn't some stereotype, but a real person, living a real life, rich in money, yet poor in the things that make life worth living. Sure, she's not a sympathetic character to start with but as she loses control she discovers her own humanity. The last minutes of the film left me open mouthed with shock, and yet oddly satisfied. Highly recommended if you like your drama nuanced, with no easy answers..