Almost Married (2014)

Disturbing yet enthralling

The plot isn't so bad, but the pace of storytelling is too slow which makes people bored. Certain moments are so obvious and unnecessary for the main plot. I would've fast-forwarded those moments if it was an online streaming. The ending looks like implying a sequel, not sure if this movie will get one

One of those movie experiences that is so good it makes you realize you've been grading everything else on a curve.

It's simply great fun, a winsome film and an occasionally over-the-top luxury fantasy that never flags.

The movie kept me glued to the screen. In the same league as the hangover or even better. Does not deserve this rating. If you have a brain you will enjoy this film.

In terms of plot, ALMOST MARRIED recalls early Seventies efforts such as PERCY'S PROGRESS (1974) in its almost relentless obsession with the penis. The basic framework is straightforward: Kyle (Philip McGinley) is reluctant to go through with his marriage to fiancée Lydia (Emily Attack) in the belief that he has contracted a sexually transmitted disease. After a picaresque series of adventures, including a dash up to Newcastle to visit its brothels, he discovers that he is perfectly healthy, and that the disease has originated from somewhere else.Ben Cookson's film contains a relentless stream of bawdy jokes, allied to a peculiarly British modesty when it comes to talking about sexual matters. While Kyle and his best friend Jarvis (Mark Stobart) are perfectly happy to dream up increasingly ludicrous methods of overcoming Kyle's problem in the pub over several pints of lager, they are obviously ill-at-ease when they visit the sexual health clinic. At one point Jarvis shouts out "I'm not gay!" to all and sundry, even though he has accompanied Kyle to the hospital. Kyle himself finds it very difficult to talk to the doctor (Val McLane): Cookson's camera focuses on his increasingly troubled countenance as he tries to tell the truth about his sexual past.The film also depicts the fragility of male bonding: the only way in which Kyle, Jarvis and their mates can get on is to make jokes at one another's expense. Being serious is considered 'weak' - especially at the pub. The only time when Kyle can face up to his dilemma is when he has broken free of Jarvis and set out on his own to confront Lydia with what he thinks is the truth about what happened. ALMOST MARRIED ends with a freeze-frame of him leaving Lydia's house and setting out on his own - for the first time, he understands that he does not need his mates' support to survive.Set in an unspecified northern town, ALMOST MARRIED has a strong sense of place, as it contrasts the respectable streets of suburban houses with the seedy bars and brothels where Jarvis and Kyle hang out. It is almost as if they are apprehensive about appearing too 'normal' - i.e. ready to settle down and enjoy married life - in case it infringes on their masculine self-images. McGinley delivers a convincing characterization of Kyle, who tries to sustain a laddish image while trying to reflect on his past and future life.ALMOST MARRIED treads familiar thematic ground, but it does so in a refreshingly unsentimental way.

Being more a classic horror fan the idea of a contemporary rom-com held absolutely no appeal for me but on this particular night it wasn't my turn to choose the movies so with a heavy heart I sat down to watch. That heavy heart did not last for long though as from the opening sequence of butt naked paint ball this film had me in stitches. I think it is important to point out here that this film has no right being described as a rom-com, the romance is minimal and although the film is laugh out loud funny, there is a poignant, dark undercurrent here that examines issues such as relationships, trusts and the taboo. The chemistry between its lead characters is the films biggest achievement meaning that even when the film is at its most raucous and outlandish there is a believability that is so often sadly lacking in the genre. I found myself drawn into the highs and lows of their intertwining relationships, I was genuinely rooting for the couple and a happy outcome to the film (which for a horror fan is a strange thing to wish for, usually I prefer to see a film end with an axe to the head). On top of this the film looks great, it is a real triumph for the first time writer/director (Ben Cookson) who is definitely one to watch for the future... Highly recommended!

I downloaded this film on iTunes after seeing it in the top ranking films and I wasn't disappointed. There's a great young British cast who portray characters that I can relate to, we all have a mate like Jarvis or know a Kyle! I watched the film with my girlfriend who also found the film entertaining, the post Indian restaurant scene back at the house got the biggest laughs in our house. The story takes a couple of twists along the way and keeps you poised right until the end. I read a review of the film that said it was filmed in just 3 weeks!! Thats some going. Check the film out for an entertaining story of love, friendship and worry...