Above the Clouds

Saw the premiere of this film at Raindance Film Festival. Wonderful. Here's what I wrote then about it on Raindance Festival Day 5: Went raving mad about this sparkly, distinctly British "American road trip" movie. Fell in love with ingénue actress Naomi Morris. Gushed about this cinema treat being destined for wide release on the film's FB page. I promise: I had not been drinking. This movie is an elixir. Prepare to become intoxicated.

Charming, witty road trip movie about family, friendship, and finding oneself. It begins with an unexpected discovery followed by an unexpected road trip with literary references. A teenager (Charlie) needs to find answers. Her passenger, Oz - not that one - but he could be, whom she wishes was 'less Dickensian in his appearance. He makes decisions by 'asking the Queen': He tosses a coin! And somehow this helps them reach their destination. Each one finds a home. The artist references and the description of 'creativity' are truly profound remarks. Sometimes you have to wait a long time to be surprised.

I really enjoyed this hidden Gem. So I will definitely be recommending it to friends and family. I love a good road trip film and it's certainly one the whole family can enjoy. Thought the two leads Charlie and Oz worked really well together, great chemistry, lots of 'laugh out loud' moments and enjoyed their banter immensely. Lovely cinematography too.

I had no idea what this film was about when I started it, and had never heard of any of the lead actors. However the simple and sometimes silly story sucks you in with such simplicity and natural beauty that I remained transfixed while it played out. Morris wears the film like a trusted old suit and carries it effortlessly throughout, despite her lack of experience. It was a much needed surprise boost of simplicity and naivety and beauty that it cheered me up no end. I will probably never watch it again, it's not that type of film, but I wish I could watch it for the first time many times more. No sex, no violence and no intrigue: just a simple story about teenage curiosity leading to a family secret and then a clear identity. This is the first time in a very, very long time I've given an 8 in a review, but it was well worth it.

A lovely, quirky, funny film. The two main actors gel wonderfully together. Also loved the landscape shots of Scotland and the map shown throughout is a nice touch.