Final copy of review - Nicole.

Here is the final copy of the review piece, which has been tweaked with a few minor changes, such as a couple more evaluative comments.


Judging by the marketing campaign, it could be just another romantic comedy, but in reality this social realism film portrays less laughter and more emotion than any predecessor has ever tried, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth would look slightly out of place had director Ben Brown opted for the big names.
Instead, the use of lesser known actors allows the audience to relate to the characters and feel gentle lap of drama that can be felt throughout.
This highly anticipated tear-jerker is set to hit the cinemas in the next few weeks, meaning more couples than ever will be loading up with popcorn and fizzy drinks to sink into each others arms, which is exactly what this film is all about.
Sophie Laurie stars as a nervous young girl, who despite the obvious affections she has for her teenage love, played by Daniel Brown, cannot bring herself or her heart to give itself away at the door of the unfortunate young man.
Brown’s character is the subject of much sympathy throughout, his heart broken by Laurie’s inconceivably innocent yet pitiless character, whose actions cause consequences she does not contemplate. Despite her conscience clearly playing its part when discussing her secret crush with her much-older looking friend (Ruse), this is not reflected in her actions as Brown is consigned to mere memory for the first half of the film.
A ingenious time elapse technique introduces the two older characters, played by Nicole Laurie and Ben Brown, with the latter trying to re-instigate a romantic rendezvous with his childhood sweetheart. Unknown to her lover however, Laurie senior is a taken woman, whose unsuitable and bumbling other half (English) plays a minor but crucial role as this tale unfolds.
The story perfectly depicts what thousands of teenagers will feel they have been through; Brown’s character is the embodiment of hope and desire yet sadness and loneliness, whilst Laurie’s elder teenager is torn between what she has to do and what she wants to do, a dilemma for many of her age group. There is more to this film than just teenage tears though, as the casting of the characters is spot on and the simple storyline promises not to lose even the most absent minded of viewers.
Nearly Reunited does exactly what it says on the social realism tin, by using some very believable settings and accurately illustrating crossroads faced by many young people today. The ironic and slightly comical aspects still bring a smile to your face rather than keep you intertwined with the sadness that keeps pouring out. With reference to true life scenarios, well crafted naturalistic settings and a spoonful of amicable and cute romance, Brown’s definitely raised the bar on the social realism chart. Part of the power of this film is as well as probably reflecting on your own first love, you will also thoroughly enjoy this production. Comparable to an updated Jane Austin storyline, the lack of dialogue is noticeable at points but the well-selected sound features make this as pleasing on the ear as it is on the eye.
　Shrooms Productions thoughtful and touching debut is more than a foray into the film market, but the first rung of a ladder filled with powerful and entertaining pieces, and promises greater things to come. Sophie Laurie produces a classy performance for someone of her tender age, flowing seamlessly from love-struck to love-sick, as she challenges the saying that ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’.