SUBMARINE

This is an engaging coming-of-age comedy drama, written and directed by Richard Ayoade.

The central focus of the film is a romance between nerdy and shy Oliver and his classmate Jordana.

Maybe it's in the writing, or the performance by Yasmin Paige as Jordana, but I couldn't get as  emotionally invested in Oliver's and Jordana's relationship as I should have.

Instead I really enjoyed the subplot involving Oliver's rather depressed dad, Lloyd, (played by Noah Taylor), his mum Jill (Sally Hawkins) and her ex-boyfriend and now new-age guru Graham (Paddy Considine).  All three are great fun to watch here.

There's also a lovely sequence where Oliver is recalling moments of his relationship with Jordana when it seems it's all over between them.  It's beautifully shot and very affecting. 

I also liked the general air of melancholy throughout which reminded me a little of Wes Anderson, but thankfully without all the quirky detail that would imply.

RATING: ✓ If You've Nothing Better To Do