Happy-Go-Lucky (2008)

SMILES!: That is the main theme of and response to this movie. However, don't be deceived by the complete bounciness of the trailer; at its heart Happy-Go-Lucky is aware of the myriad problems everyone faces, it's just trying to bring some joy and hope to its cynical viewers despite how awful everything is. The movie focuses on Poppy (Sally Hawkins), a thirtysomething grade school teacher living with her best friend Zoe (Alexis Zegerman) in London. Her boundless optimism, baudy sense of humor, and love of fun rule her decisions as we follow her over a period of a several weeks through driving lessons with a prejudiced instructor Scott (Eddie Marsan), a student with anger issues in her class, back problems, a first date, and lots of small adventures with her friends and family. Despite the unpleasantness that can surround her or those around her, Poppy is convinced that things will work out in one way or another. However, despite smiling through her sister's condemnation of her unmarried life, the confused ramblings of a homeless man she meets, and a terrifying outburst from Scott, Poppy knows her joie de vivre is not contagious. Many of the problems she or those around her face are not solved or even bettered. She acknowledges this, and insists on maintaining her cheery outlook regardless.

Poppy is adorable and, while she would probably be really annoying as an actual person, as a character she shines. She is overly talkative and at times inappropriate but almost always to endearingly comedic effect. The dialogue of the film is quick and bantery, light-hearted without being empty. I loved the interactions between Poppy and Zoe: their ten-year friendship was often highlighted in their cuddly, affectionate, and mocking exchanges. These are two women who understand each other completely, happy to be with one another while half-heartedly pining for men to enter their lives. Happy-Go-Lucky is optimistic without being completely unrealistic, meaning it is able to avoid being overly sappy. I really enjoyed watching it, plus everything was so colorful! There are a few uncomfortable moments, serving as reminders of the world outside Poppy's happiness bubble, but her good spirits keep the audience up throughout the film. A word of warning though: watch out for Eric's teeth. He is sort of hard to watch sometimes.

4.5/5

I've never seen any of Mike Leigh's other movies but I guess now I should, though I realize they lean more toward drama than comedy. Vera Drake is supposed to be good right? What about Secrets & Lies? Topsy-Turvy? Recommendations, please.