Life Is Sweet is a 1990 British comedy-drama film written and directed by Mike Leigh. The film follows the daily lives of a working-class family and their struggles with life and love. The film is set in North London, and it explores the lives of Wendy, Andy, and their twins Natalie and Nicola.
Wendy is a fun-loving and energetic woman who works as a clerk in a shop and teaches aerobics at a primary school. She is always willing to help her friends and family, including agreeing to waitress at a friend's new restaurant. Wendy dotes on her husband Andy, who is a cook but tends to procrastinate when it comes to home remodeling projects.
Natalie is the more responsible twin, with a short, neat haircut and a snappy and droll demeanor. She works as a plumber and has a holiday planned to America, but her life lacks direction beyond that.
Nicola, on the other hand, is struggling with bulimia, joblessness, and unhappiness. She has a snarl, wears big glasses, smokes cigarettes, and is constantly jittery. Her hair is always mussed, and she has a nervous tick with her fingers.
Despite their differences, the family is close, and the film explores how they interact and play out their family conflict and love. The film’s other characters, like Wendy’s friend Aubrey, who opens the new restaurant, and Nicola’s friend who helps her score drugs, are also glimpses into the lives of people living on the fringes of society.
Life Is Sweet is a poignant and humorous look at the complexities of working-class life, and is framed with Leigh's trademark honesty and attention to detail. The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, solidifying Leigh's status as one of Britain's foremost filmmakers.
