It's very interesting how non-hollywoodian movies treats in another ways the same life's occurrences.
Graham Swift's brilliant novel serves as the basis of this film, adapted and directed by Fred Schipisi, who gathered some of the best English talent to give life to the characters of the novel in a satisfying film that will not disappoint.
We are taken to a local pub where three old friends have gone to have a drink before embarking on a trip to Margate. When Vic arrives with a box, it's made clear the ashes of another friend is what has prompted the reunion. In flashbacks, we are taken to see Jack's life from the days of WWII and the way the four friends have met and how their lives have been intertwined.
There is also Amy, Jack's widow, who is taking a trip on her own to visit a daughter who has been committed to an institution because she is mentally challenged. Amy is also a key figure in the story because of the love Jack felt for her.
Vince, Jack's son, is driving a late model car to Margate and takes Vic, Ray and Lenny with him. the purpose is to scatter the ashes in the place which Jack wanted to live with Amy, but never got around to it. Vince, is the key figure in the story, which is made clear when he makes a detour to a place that is the pivotal part of this tale.
Michael Caine is Jack, the dead man, who is seen in flashbacks. Bob Hoskins plays Ray. David Hemmings and Tom Courtenay are seen as Lenny and Vic. Helen Merrin is magnificent in a subtle performance as Amy. Ray Winstone is Vince.
Fred Schipisi succeeded in creating the right atmosphere in the adaptation of the novel. His sensitive direction works well and he gets excellent backing from his distinguished cast.
'Last Orders' tells majestically a story of companionship, with nostalgic tenderness. Covered with the reminiscences of the characters about good times lived together, the movie constructs on flashbacks over 50 years of experiences together, showing how they'd deal with life's turns over time, and with the new directions that opens.
It pleases me very much to watch movies that show characters as human beings, filled of weakness and real problems, showing everyday challenges with humor and humanity.
The speed of the movie is very different from the video clip ratio we see on most Hollywoodian movies, slower as the mood of the characters.
Showed with the right soundtrack and enchanting photography, the scenes of the intelligent script are very well taken.
Time is also well dealt with the non-linear effects of the flashbacks, which demands attention from the spectator to be able to gather the pieces of the puzzle.
'Last Orders' certainly is a profound story about celebration of life, a movie about understanding the meaning of actions and value.
