Clubland (10 out of 10)

Everything about this film is magical but nothing is a magical as Brenda Blethyn's performance as second rate comedienne Jean Dwight. It is another tour de force and it's about time the critics start paying attention to her as one of the greatest actresses of the stage and screen. I think she was actually too good in Secrets and Lies. She disappeared so completely into her role that I think people didn't realize she was acting, and so never gave her her props for the astounding character she created. I was lucky enough to see Blethyn in 'Night Mother last year on Broadway where she pretty much blew Edie Falco off the stage and now was lucky enough to see the premiere of this Oscar worthy performance in Clubland. Wow is all I can say to her finely crafted and multifaceted portrayal of a self centered and iron willed hack-with-a-heart-of-gold. Her smothering mothering is spot on and she anchors this film as no other actress could. It was written with her in mind and lucky for the filmmakers she agreed to take the role. Thank you Brenda for this gift of a performance. May everyone take notice. Surrounding Blethyn's "sun" are other bright orbiting planets. Khan Chittenden does a great job as the dutiful yet rebellious son, Richard Wilson as his physically but in no way mentally challenged brother has unbelievably accurate comedic timing. Emma Booth is so very endearing as the self effacing "modern girl" Jill. There isn't a weak link in the film. Not in the writing or the perfectly paced direction. Not in the performances. Not in the cinematography. This is a must see film and I defy anyone not to enjoy the experience. - Brahman