My Name is Joe (15)

showing at The Phoenix from Friday 27 November

Cast: Peter Mullan, Louise Goodall; Director: Ken Loach

Sending me to review a movie by Ken Loach is almost like sending a kid into a candy-store - it is almost inevitable that I emerge with a smile across my face. Loach is well-known for creating notable films that explore the frailties of humanity and "My Name is Joe" is no exception.
The film is a portrait of an unemployed, recovering alcoholic, Joe (Peter Mullan). Joe's only love is coaching probably the worst football team in all of Glasgow, until he meets Sarah (Louise Goodall). Together, they find themselves helping Liam, a member of the football team who is fighting to stay off drugs and support his family.
Several complicating factors have been deftly sketched. The blossoming love between Joe and Sarah is threatened by the intricacies of life. McGowan, the local drug-dealer, poses a major hazard to the well-being of Liam and his family. There is a rewarding variety of characters and some raw moments of emotion, as the characters grapple with their feelings and wrestle with their actions.
More driven by character than by plot, the picture works because of a trio of first-rate performances. Most outstanding was Peter Mullan, who deservedly won the coveted Best Actor Award at Cannes. Using a naturalistic style, Mullan turned in a pivotal and gobsmacking performance.
Despite splashes of humour, there is a sag in the midsection, as the film becomes woefully low on conflict and incident. Perhaps Loach is trying to lull the audience into a false sense of security, as we begin to believe the film is becoming predictable and formulaic; and in doing so, he emphasises the heartbreaking and distressing ending.
"My Name is Joe" is about real lives, difficult choices and the triumph of the human spirit. Although issues take a back seat to people, the reality of unemployment and the poverty trap are evident. Even more so is the growing use of drugs and alcohol as necessities of life, as a means to escape from reality.
The film's robust nature has an organic,brash look that suits the ragged storytelling and shaggy heroes. Overall, this is a charming, unassuming film with great heart that strikese the right balance. Utilising an involving situation and relativley credible characters, Loach manufactures a tale of love, human resilience, and humanity.

Michelle Teo
18/11/98