Classic in the genre of British social realism
Director: Mike Leigh (including Naged, Mr. Turner, Happy Goe Lucky) - Actors: including Timothy Spall, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Brenda Blethyn
Length: 136 minutes - Language: English
- Subtitles: Dutch
Because of his new film HARD TRUTHS, we are screening some of Mike Leigh's 1995 classic. The same actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste plays a starring role.
When Hortense Cumberbatch(Marianne Jean-Baptiste), a confident and successful young black woman from London, searches for her biological mother after the death of her adoptive parents, she discovers a truth that turns her world upside down. Her mother Cynthia Purley(Brenda Blethyn) turns out to be a lonely, white factory worker living in poverty in East London. Cynthia's initial shock and denial give way to a reluctant bond with Hortense. This also strains her life and relations with her rebellious daughter Roxanne. Her brother Maurice(Timothy Spall), a kind-hearted photographer, also plays a crucial role in the drama. His marriage to Monica (Phyllis Logan) has its own tensions. Long-hidden secrets within the family come to the surface.
With a subtle blend of realism, humor and emotional depth, Secrets & Lies explores themes of identity and family relationships. Director Mike Leigh created a film that is both moving and poignant, with brilliant improvisational acting.