I saw Barbie the same week I saw Nessie. One came from a massive studio and had an eye-watering budget, the other was an Independent film with a very modest budget. I think it speaks volumes for the latter that I enjoyed both experiences.
Who doesn't know the legend of The Loch Ness Monster? It is one that has fascinated generations and is very topical at the moment not least because the largest research project in 50 years into the existence of the monster was announced on the very day of the film premiere.
The story could have been cliched, a little village we presume is in the vicinity of Loch Ness (although it wasn't filmed there), living in the shadow of a legend. It's a quiet place with people so accustomed to local folklore that they seem a little jaded by it all. It takes an outsider's legacy and the promise of a fantastic amount of money to raise the villagers from their apathy and a fight for what is rightfully theirs to reawaken their passion and community spirit.
It's a film that can be viewed on more than one level. It's a classic tale of the little guys fighting against a more powerful and richer 'bad' guy. That level is easily enjoyed and appeals to the whole family. Look beneath the surface though and much like the loch itself it has hidden depths. There is a little romance, a little tension. There's a modern twist with references to live-streaming add to the mix the comedic value of a rather eccentric special effects expert (Tim Churchill ) and the ingredients are all there.
It is an ensemble cast and a good mix of acting veterans and newer talents. All the cast give highly credible performances.
Patrick Kilpatrick is wonderfully cast as Brad, the rich American who arrives to contest his father's will. He is brash and spoilt and very corporate with a massive Nessie shaped chip on his shoulder. Caroline Guthrie is superbly funny as the unflappable widow Moira. Stephanie Beacham as Samantha controls matters from the safety and seclusion of her London office and sends her protege Heather (Tanya Fear) to trouble shoot the situation.
There's a whole village of interesting characters but the MacPherson family is at the heart of things.
Patriarch Jimmy (John Michie), his son Geordie (Jason Harvey) and granddaughter Alice (Edith Glad). All three actors give thoughtful portrayals of a close family that's endured a great deal and is in search of a little hope. John Michie's performance as a slightly bewildered widower concerned for his granddaughter is extremely moving.
Nessie is a gentle, watchable film. It will make you laugh, it will make you think. It's not an epic, but sometimes you just want a sandwich rather than a banquet.
