As I flipped through the movies listed to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this year, this one in particular caught my interest: First because of the title – Fish Tank , and second as I read the synopsis, I realized this was a movie we all needed to see for one reason or another.
The story is about a 15-year-old Mia, who lives in the worst of neighborhoods in England’s Essex, she is a misfit and seems to get kicked out of schools often. She spends her days drinking and dancing to hip-hop tunes in an abandoned apartment she shares with her mother and sister, whom she fights with constantly.
However, one day Mia’s life changes when her mother brings home a boyfriend, a handsome security guard who for some strange reason takes great interest in the girls and as a result of his attention Mia flourishes until one day they decide to act upon their special relationship and attraction.
We can only imagine where the story goes from here, but based on what I have read so far, it is most interesting and as close to reality as can be. According to most reviews what makes this pic different is it’s no holds bar honesty and lack of sentimentality with an added bonus of natural performance by all the actors. The only concern is that this film may have limited distribution throughout and the possibility that the ratings may prevent most teens from seeing it, even tho they should. However, it is a must see by all who can.
Directed, written by Andrea Arnold. Starring: Katie Jarvis, Michael Fassbender, Kierston Wareing, Rebecca Griffiths, Harry Treadaway.
B-lot buzz 