Comedy,Drama
United Kingdom
High Hopes is a British comedy-drama film directed by Mike Leigh and produced by Simon Channing-Williams. It was released in 1988 and stars Ruth Sheen as Shirley, Phil Davis as Cyril, and Edna Doré as Cyril's aging mother.
The film presents a slice-of-life perspective on working-class London and the challenges faced by ordinary people. Shirley and Cyril are a sweet couple who live together in a small apartment. They share a deep love and bond, but they also have their share of disagreements and misunderstandings.
Cyril's mother, Mrs. Bender, lives in the same building and is becoming increasingly forgetful and dependent on others. She often relies on Cyril and Shirley for help, but this causes tension between them, especially as they struggle to balance their own lives with caring for her.
Meanwhile, Cyril's sister Valerie and her husband Martin are snobbish and pretentious. They view themselves as superior to Shirley and Cyril and often belittle them. However, they themselves have their own problems, including Martin's infidelity and Valerie's bitter resentment towards her brother for not following in their father's footsteps and becoming a successful businessman.
The film explores themes such as class, family, aging, and relationships. It highlights the struggles and hopes of ordinary people as they navigate life's challenges. Despite the obstacles they face, Shirley and Cyril maintain their love for each other and their determination to build a better life together.
Overall, High Hopes is a touching and humorous film that offers a poignant and honest portrayal of working-class life in London. It presents a relatable and engaging story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
