Under the Skin

This film was shown last night on UK TV. Unfortunately I missed the first 20 minutes or so but the rest was so good I feel it is still worth commenting on. The film centres around the different reactions of two sisters to their mother's death - don't however get the impression that this is a film to be endured rather than enjoyed. Although the subject matter is serious and the film very emotionally moving, there are flashes of humour throughout and it is not boringly earnest for one moment. I read somewhere that the director is an admirer of Mike Leigh's "Naked". While it is no poor relation, if you appreciate the work of Mike Leigh you would probably also enjoy "Under the Skin".

Under the Skin is the story of Iris, a young woman who goes off the rail into drink and promiscuity following her mother's death. What follows is a very unpleasant viewing experience, as this character destroys every solid relationship she has around her as a result of her self destructive behaviour. The film is very well acted by all involved, and the director should be commended for maintaining a state of realism without being (to) graphic. One scene in particular did genuinely shock me. Overall, if you're in the mood for a depressing ride watching someone disintegrate into sex and alcoholism, well acted, scripted and directed then it will be worth a watch, but ultimately it may prove a bit too much.

I saw Under the Skin on TV, very late, desperate to go to sleep, but I just couldn't stop watching it, it gripped me completely. It is a film about bereavment, and how different people cope with it. The film is deeply moving, courageously frank, and with a very strong visual style. The whole cast was excellent, but Samantha Morton was just fantastic. I recommend it fullheartedly.

This is a very good film. It grabbed my attention after seeing the great Morvern Callar last week, which also features Samantha Morton. As said in other comments, Under the Skin is considered her breakthrough. She is a truly gifted actress, I love her depth of emotion.

At one point in this movie she walks along a ribbed fence, while touching it with her right hand: taktaktaktaktak. I don't know if this is a reference, but it reminded me of a scene in one of Kieslowski's Trois Couleurs films (Rouge, I believe.) There an equally tormented woman walks along a brick wall in a similar way, wounding her right hand which starts to bleed heavily.

I wouldn't say those films are really the same, but I would certainly recommend the one if someone would like the other. In both films, as well as Morvern Callar, we follow a female protagonist unable to deal with a traumatic experience, the passing away of someone very close to her. We follow her down the road of estrangement, wondering if she will ever find peace.

Under the Skin is a deeply touching and disturbing movie, which has affected me more than any other. If you have ever been through great sorrow, see this movie! It shows very clearly that there is no "right" way to handle your grief.