An impressive film about a pair of car thieves in the north of
England combines social commentary, poignant drama and lyrical cinematography
Petty criminal Rob (Charley Palmer Rothwell) has a busier schedule than most gainfully employed people in this affecting debut feature from director Rene van Pannevis. He and best mate Leo (Thomas Turgoose) steal cars for profit and pleasure, often with Leo’s giggling girlfriend, Kasia (Morgane Polanski, daughter of director Roman), along for the ride.
Life is less of a lark at home, where Rob is the sole carer for his terminally ill father, Oswald (Tom Fisher), a former merchant seaman who has been abandoned to asbestos-related lung disease by his negligent employer. Oswald believes – or perhaps just vainly hopes – that Rob is out looking for work during the days. There’s not much of that about in their small, port-town home (Hartlepool, though it’s never named).