MOVIE REVIEW
Bolan’s Shoes
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Ian Puleston-Davies
Writer(s): Ian Puleston-Davies
Cast: Timothy Spall, Leanne Best, Mark Lewis Jones, Mathew Horne
Where To Watch: releases on digital March 18, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: BOLAN'S SHOES takes you on a nostalgic whirlwind back to the '70s, complete with all the glitz and grunge that glam rock offers. Through the emotionally charged performances of Timothy Spall and Leanne Best, we're given a front-row seat to Jimmy and Sadie's rollercoaster lives. Their journey is a story of the essence of human resilience. Directed by Ian Puleston-Davies, this film is a testament to the transformative power of music and human connection despite its moments of melodrama.

Ian Puleston-Davies shines in his directorial debut, moving from actor to the helm with a clear vision and a deep understanding of human emotions. His direction adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, capturing the heartache and euphoria of the era with a keen eye for detail. While imperfect, this film is guaranteed to touch your soul; a simple, clear heart drives the film.

At the heart of this film lies a soundtrack that's as much a character as Jimmy and Sadie themselves. The story's pivotal moment—an ill-fated Marc Bolan concert—sets off a domino effect, sending our protagonists on a journey fraught with adversity. Yet, it's through their battles with grief, identity, and mental health that the music of Marc Bolan shines as a lighthouse, guiding them through their darkest moments.

The screenplay navigates between joy and despair, utilizing flashbacks to flesh out our heroes' pasts, enriching the narrative with emotional depth. This clever storytelling technique, coupled with a soundtrack that captures the soul of the '70s, elevates the film beyond a simple period piece.

Leanne Best delivers a spectacular performance, tackling her character's complex emotional landscape with finesse. Timothy Spall, matching her step for step, offers a nuanced portrayal of Jimmy, making every scene he's in a study of depth and vulnerability. The ensemble cast, including Mark Lewis Jones and Dyfan Dwyfor, rounds out the film with performances that breathe life into this vivid reimagining of the past. While there may be stumbles along the way, the film's story overcomes any turbulence, giving us a memorable journey with the cast. BOLAN'S SHOES occasionally gets tangled in its narrative ambition, veering into melodrama. But these instances are mere footnotes in an otherwise compelling narrative that champions the healing virtues of music and shared experiences.

It’ll be interesting to see the response to this film as more people get to see it. There seems to be a mixed bag, as some people expected more of a documentary in terms of the music, while others appreciate the story being told at its core. Despite its few hiccups, the film stands as a poignant reflection on the impact of art on the human soul.

BOLAN'S SHOES transcends the conventional boundaries of storytelling, blending powerful performances with a memorable soundtrack and insightful explorations of society. This film marks a notable addition to British cinema, reminding us that the most unlikely tales can resonate deeply with passion, innovation, and a keen insight into the human condition.

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[photo courtesy of 101 FILMS]

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