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Lone_Shark
Reviews
Someone's Daughter, Someone's Son (2024)
Moving human stories that illustrate a problem that could be solved
Homelessness, and rough sleeping in particular, is difficult to avoid noticing in London and other large cities in the UK, but we seldom hear the individual stories of those who find themselves out on the streets. Lorna Tucker's film, whilst unlikely to contain any revelations for the reasonably well-informed viewer, works best when it focuses on these human stories. We learn how alcoholic parents, domestic violence, relationship breakdowns and other issues have catapulted people into a live on the streets (often coming alongside, or leading to, addictions of their own). We hear how the support structures for these individuals have fallen away, or been available inconsistently, or even - in the case of homeless hostels - have exacerbated their problems.
Whilst a film like this is probably unlikely to find a huge audience in cinemas, the straightforward emotional power with which it tells these human stories - and its hopeful message that homelessness is a problem we can solve, if we (as a society) want to - will stay with those who do watch it. Hopefully it finds an audience on a streaming service or on 'linear' TV (the BBC's Storyville strand would seem an ideal home for it in the UK), and more people get to see and hear the stories of the individuals who opened up to the filmmakers, and by extension, to viewers.
The Office (2001)
Pure Class
A show of spleen-bursting hilarity, but maybe only Brits will understand it properly. Has something to do with that classic British humour thing. Anyway, I recommend the show to anyone of any nationality. If you don't find it funny, go back to the Three Stooges or Benny Hill.
Family Guy (1999)
Up There With The Simpsons?
Some people I know prefer this to the Simpsons, but they are a little too enthusiastic. A bit more realistic than the Simpsons, but it still features a talking baby who plans world domination (and builds a time machine). As a substitute for the Simpsons or Futurama, it's about as good as you can get.
Father Ted (1995)
By God, it is hilarious!
With reference to previous comments, nobody in the Catholic Church (including me) has a problem with this show. It's absolutely hilarious, as will be evident to almost any viewer (assuming you have a decent sense of humour). In 5 words: Surrealist irreverent Irish priest comedy.