Common People (2013)

An absolute waste of money

In truth, there is barely enough story here to make a film.

it is the rare 'crazy' movie that actually has something to say.

All of these films share one commonality, that being a kind of emotional center that humanizes a cast of monsters.

Uplifting and heartwarming story well scripted and a wonderful way to bring the real star of the show, Tooting Bec Common, to the big screen with it's variety of people, characters, social situations, wildlife, trees and general ecology. I have some history on this common having used it as a playground and discovery centre for my children as they grew up and the blend of stories is truly representative of the pattern of life it carries every day. I loved trying to figure out the scene locations, but that's an indulgence for locals. The social documentary also stands out in it's own right. Well done and to the cast and crew for bringing such an adventurous and brave production to fruition.

You can tell that this film was made on a small budget but it's nonetheless clever and affecting. It interweaves a number of stories on Tooting Common, a green open space with walkers, children, dogs, drinkers, homeless people, all sorts. One strand involves an escaped parrot; another features a very pregnant woman who eventually gives birth on the common and has to be helped by a scout master and a bunch or fascinated and repelled scouts; a third concerns an old couple, still in love but thinking about the end - the woman suggests buying mobility scooters and doing a Thelma and Louise off Beachy Head! It's not twee at all, it's quite upfront. I really admired what the two directors managed without much money - it's a sweet and inspiring effort.

I saw this film at the Clapham Picturehouse and am so glad I did.It's a very real, warm, funny, moving and at times bonkers movie. All in all the kind of film that British indies do best.I'm based in London so I did feel a sense of pride in seeing London and Londoners represented this way in a film, but I think the characters and their stories would translate to anyone from anywhere right now. These are ordinary people facing extraordinary moments in their lives and it was great to follow them all on their journey. The characters are also so diverse in their ages and backgrounds that I think this film holds something for everyone to relate to, oh and I should also say that the ensemble of actors in this film do a fantastic job. The performances really are top notch, even from the parrot (!) and dogs (bonkers!) I won't say any more, you need to see it for yourself!To the visuals- The Common it's filmed on looks gorgeous, it's really nicely shot and you feel like you are really 'in there' with the characters, a privileged voyeur, much like the parrot.Yes, this film does have it's faults, but all in all I'd totally recommend it if you're in the mood for an uplifting film with real heart.

This is a little gem of a film which celebrates the diverse people in London (and the UK) which make up our communities today.It weaves through the lives and experiences of a number of characters. Seeing the light, bright side to life as well as the challenges and heart break too.Filmed entirely on Tooting Common, the film follows the cheeky escape artist Princess Parroty, who elopes to the lush green space in the midst of the hustle and bustle of London. As she explores her new home we get a birds eye view of the regulars who come to the common and we are able to share in their lives.I was absorbed into the film very quickly, and really cared about what was going to happen to the people in each individual story. The stories, although separate, find themselves connecting together in touching and often humorous ways. The fact that Common People was filmed on a micro budget during the wettest April on record, adds extra magic when watching it. The film oozes warmth and joy and is a true nod to all that's good about London.