Shank
- Director: Simon Pearce
- Writer: Darren Flaxstone; Christian Martin
- Producer: Christian Martin; Robert Shulevitz
CGiii Comment
It is a bleak view of the UK with a shaky camera.
Pearce is, ultimately, let down by the failings of a basic, moronic and lacklustre script - and, he is most certainly not helped by by some horrific acting.
20 minutes in, the film introduces Laurent - the French fashion fop - the road to flop is relentless and rather comical - albeit unintended.
However, this does get a well-deserved 1 star rating simply because Mr Pearce does show a remarkable talent for one so young.
With a little trimming, a major re-write - this could have been a very special film.
Pearce is truly able to deliver such a film - just keep him away from some truly atrocious writers (and actors).
Trailer...
The(ir) Blurb...
Teenage gang member Cal hides his sexuality from his fellow happy slapping gang members' often futile and violent dislike of anyone who isn't the same as them, be they unsuspecting shoppers, foreign students, gays, etc. Hooking up with a random stranger (Scott), Cal is unaware that this chance meeting will eventually provide him with choices and routes of escape from the tedium of his unambitious and depraved life. When his world collides with Olivier, a French student he rescues from a pointless beating, he encounters a lifestyle that presents as many new experiences as it does obstacles.
Cast & Characters
Wayne Virgo as Cal;
Marc Laurent as Olivier;
Alice Payne as Nessa;
Tom Bott as Jonno;
Garry Summers as Scott;
Bernie Hodges as Will;
Christian Martin as David;
Louise Fearnside as Dayna;
Oliver Park as Gang Member 1