An Education is the latest film being touted as ‘Film of the year‘ and having seen it last night I really wouldn’t disagree. It’s definitely one of the best films I’ve seen this year. In a nutshell it’s a coming-of-age story set in 1960’s suburban London – Twickenham to be precise. The film is based on the memoirs of journalist Lynn Barber and actress of the moment Carey Mulligan plays Jenny; the lead character. With a screenplay by Nick Hornby it’s an easygoing and enjoyable film to watch. Look out for Alfred Molina who has some brilliant one-liners as Jenny’s Dad and also Emma Thompson who is, as always, a class-act playing the part of the headmistress. My only real gripe with the film would be that the American actor Peter Sarsgaard plays the lead male role ‘David’. I’ve got no problem with his acting, but did the part of a English man really need to be played by an American when there are numerous British actors who could of played the role equally as well, if not better.
One last thing about the film. The car that ‘David’ drives is sublime. They mention it’s a Bristol but never which particular model. Now for a car-nut like myself it’s all about the details. I want to know what model, engine and most importantly how many sterling pounds I’d need to hypothetically own one. As we live in the glorious year of 2009 everything is but a mere Google away. So for anyone who cares, the car is a Bristol 405. Although it turns out I’m in good company as a fan of the beautiful 405. Non other than Nottingham’s finest designer Paul Smith is an owner.
“Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination. Devour old films, new films, music, books, paintings, photographs, poems, dreams, random conversations, architecture, bridges, street signs, trees, clouds, bodies of water, light and shadows. Select only things to steal that speak directly to your soul. If you do this, your work (and theft) will be authentic. Authenticity is invaluable; originality is non-existent. And don’t bother concealing your thievery-celebrate it if you feel like it. In any case, always remember what Jean-Luc Godard said: It’s not where you take things from, it’s where you take them to.”
