The Good Neighbour

Nuanced commentary on Brexit? A unique take on MS? Nah. This is quite literally nearly two hours of a woman teaching a mute alien how to run a farm. You can't even call it a "slow burn." Something would need to friggin' get burned.

As a person who is not normally a massive sci-fi or horror fan I had certain assumptions and reservations before watching. However they were quickly put in their place. This is a cleverly written, beautifully shot and produced film. It uses subtle sci-fi/horror sub text and tones in a brilliant way, and the lack of big flashy effects is what makes this film so unnerving at times and so real. For me it has all the elements of a great psychological thriller too, making you actively, unavoidably involved as a viewer by the two main characters 'Jodie' and 'the traveller' who pull you in, have you intrigued, uncomfortable, second guessing yourself, and invested in both their stories. Great original British film, with great performances. Definitely worth watching!

The Good Neighbour is a beautiful and touching story about understanding and accepting your fate. It focuses on the protagonist and her multiple sclerosis diagnosis. The movie opens with her having to deal with the first signs of the disease while she tries to fight it and to prove that she doesn't need anyone's help or pity. Even if she is surrounded by friends and family only the presence of a lonely Visitor will help her accept her condition. The sci-fi element doesn't overshadow the personal journey of the protagonist, but in fact, it strengthens the plot and leads the protagonist along her journey to acceptance. A beautiful and touching story that will stay with you for a long time.

This is a fascinating film - sort of sci-Fi, sort of thriller, sort of psychological drama dealing with personal ordeal. It's simple - nothing in the way of big effects but character driven and there are beautiful performances - unshowy and subtle from Fiona Hampton and George Taylor - who manages to make silence incredibly eloquent. There are some interesting inferences and the film touches on the state of the UK after Brexit as well as telling its main story. It has done edge of the seat moments but remains human and moving at times. Cinemaphotography beautiful and the pace, while quite slow, is really well sustained. I loved it.

It started out with a lot of mystery and unanswered questions which kept me intrigued. As the story unraveled I felt like I understood the main character's pain and the difficult problems she was faced with. I was torn between liking the man who showed up randomly or hating him. This movie made me reflect a lot about situations faced in real life. I would call this movie an excellent thriller with very personable characters. I would recommend this to anyone!