April

Not usually a genre that I would casually sit down to watch but am glad that I did! Whilst uncomfortable to watch at times this hard hitting feature from director and writer Darren King is a relatable story of how interwoven crime and child grooming in this case is into our modern society and with what ease it can destroy lives and relationships. No big cinematic events just everyday stories of young people who are enticed into an initial glamorised life of crime before the reality and pay back becomes searingly clear. Brilliantly cast and powerful performances throughout. A hard hitting and memorable film that will remain with you.

April seems to be the beginning of a great career for Darren King. Not to anyone's surprise he does this with what he has been so potent with throughout his career; a British gangster film. If you've had any experience with King's movies you know exactly what you're getting into here, a topical thriller. This of course may seem problematic, in King's case it is not.

The writing and dialog are fast paced and quite entertaining to watch. The movie as a whole maybe be a bit of a head scratcher here and there but the pay off is good and the idea is a bit of a parody of itself which is what makes this film so fun.

What King accomplishes though, in the same way he has with his past successful productions is putting together an extremely diverse and yet correlating cast. This starts with the lead man in Neil Ward whose notoriety has steadily risen largely through his performances of caricatures (not an insult). With April, Ward seems to have found a role perfect for his appeal and charm he brings to the screen. This is largely because of a good script and great, fun performances all around.

Then of course there is Kiera Lane as April who until this year was largely a total unknown. While Neil Ward may have found a genre he is most strongly suited for, Kiera Lane could certainly use this as a great start to launch to the very least a respectable acting career. Her posture, range and ability to change tone and style subtly is something that should be and surely will be recognized.

Really enjoyed watching this. It's A film with a powerful message for everyone. Definitely worth watching. The cast were all played very well, their own stories are well written, it makes you want to follow them.

In Darren James King's April, Neal Ward is a force to be reckoned with. Whilst we do feel for him at times due to his history, the plot ensures this is very shortlived.

Kiera Lane plays the titular role of April, a sweet girl who you just want to steer in any direction other than to Myles. Lane provides an emotional performance that draws you further into the storyline.

King's writing manages to weave various characters into different storylines flawlessly as the film delves into the dark and disturbing reality of organised crime. It also shows the effects it has on the young people sucked into the lifestyle they should be sheltered from.

April is a great crime drama and is well worth a watch!

Really didn't enjoy watching this. It's a film that thinks it has a powerful message, but not worth watching. The cast were all played awful, probably not helped by a sullen and boring script, their own stories are badly written, it makes you wish Amazon would review their policies on allowing tripe to be on their service.

Any chance of a refund...