Coming off the back of last year’s critically-acclaimed yet rarely-seen Route Irish (2010), Palme d’Or-winning British director Ken Loach reunites with screenwriter Paul Laverty this year for Scottish comedy-drama The Angels’ Share (2012). Yet again, Loach will present his latest film to the world via the Croisette after it was selected to screen in competition at this year’s 65th Cannes Film Festival.
Loach’s latest feature pivots around Robbie (Paul Brannigan), a wayward and disillusioned slack whose life is changed after he sneaks into the maternity hospital to visit his young girlfriend Leonie and hold his new-born son Luke for the first time. Vowing to right his past wrongs and ensure his newborn son doesn’t suffer like he did, our plucky protagonist devises a plan alongside fellow community service workers Rhino (William Ruane), Albert (Gary Maitland) and Mo (Jasmin Riggins) to make a money-making malt whisky that will set them straight for the rest of their lives.
Known the world over for his particular brand of cinematic realism, whether exploring war, sport or politics, Loach revels in his creative freedom and craftsmanship, able to reinvent himself with every film he makes. The Angels’ Share, presented by the initial trailer and quad poster as a comedic tale of self-discovery and friendship, should see Loach return to more light-hearted fare, in the same vein of 2002’s Sweet Sixteen and/or Looking For Eric (2009).
Boasting a predominantly British cast, the lush scenery of the Scottish countryside (captured by award-winning cinematographer Robbie Ryan) and Loach’s unfaltering attention-to-detail, The Angels’ Share looks to deliver a whimsical yet sincere tale with all the satire and realism one might expect from a film by one of the most admired and respected filmmakers in the world.
With a UK release date already pencilled in for June 1 and a confirmed slot at this year’s Festival de Cannes (follow this link for the full festival lineup), Loach fans will soon be able to clap their eyes on the acclaimed director’s latest effort.
The 65th Cannes Film Festival takes place from 16-27 May, 2012. For more of our Cannes 2012 coverage, simply follow this link.
