Hanging in There

An educational and entertaining piece on a taboo subject, one that needs to be spoken more by men. The humour is tasteful and well timed to keep the audience's attention inbetween the educational parts. I for one will check myself in the future which I guess is the entire films purpose.

A film made locally and with largely amateur actors. One would normally have only moderate expectations, but let me say that these can be largely set aside, such is the impact of and standards set by this film. It tackles a tricky subject (testicular cancer) with due seriousness, and yet the story is told with such a lightness of touch and a degree of good humour that it makes for easy and entertaining viewing. The performances are such that one can readily forget that one is watching amateur players. For the most part the playing is convincing, with only the odd minor role failing to convince. Chris Hudson and Elizabeth Joyce Morris in the central roles are outstanding in delivering a witty script by Geoff Saunders, and Darren Scott's direction is remarkable for one new to film-making.

A wonderful sensitively portrayed story of Jack Jackson (played by Chris Hudson) who discovers he has a lump on one of his testicles, which he dismisses for a while until he is convinced to get himself checked out. Anna, his wife (played by Elizabeth Joyce Morris)goes through all the emotions and feelings of a couple in turmoil once Jack has admitted his discovery to his wife. The car scene is so moving it had me in tears to see Anna completely broken. Beautifully played by both characters. The supporting cast give their all to the film, making it an essential watch for any of you blokes out there too proud to admit you might be scared or indeed terrified to see a doctor if you think you may have a lump on one of your testicles. Congratulations to all who were connected to this wonderful film that should be shown to as many organisations as possible. As the director (Darren Scott) said, "If one life has been saved, then it was all worth it."

The subject matter for this movie is a taboo subject for men, this is a well written, directed and well worth a watch. There's moments of laughter and crying, the story tells you what could happen, it's not always the case but if people can learn from it. If one person watching it reguarly checks themselves and if finds something goes to there doctor it's message will have got across. Hoping people will spread the word once they've seen this film with a very real subject.

A comedy about cancer might seem unappealing but this is a warm and charming story well told.

The leading lady presents a star turn, if you're not moved by the scene in the car, there's something amiss.

I hope this film gets the wider audience it deserves.