Written and directed by Daniel Audritt and Kat Butterfield, Bill is in end of life care waiting for the sweet release of death – but unfortunately for him he is stuck in an infinite time loop, causing the day to restart the second his heart stops. Starring: David Bradley, Matt Berry, Maggie Steed, Jayne Aguire, Brona C. Titley, Laura Checkley, Paul G. Raymond, Mark Davison, Comfort Fabian and Ninette Finch.
David Bradley is a national treasure and an underappreciated icon, as well as being absolutely fantastic at comedy. Bradley can craft an entertaining curmudgeon character in his sleep, and Bill is a great example of just how effortless it is. Going through all the motions, starting off ultra grumpy, and becoming boldly and insultingly honest, before entering the emotional territory of Life Goes On. He’s a joy to watch, not least of which when he gets the swearing going, there’s always something satisfying about watching the elderly really let people have it.
The way that the story progresses and the evolution of Bill may be familiar, but it’s a known formula for a reason, because it works so well, especially within short film. Life Goes On gets you nice and settled in, having fun, before it delivers the punch to the heart. When it turns on the emotion, it doesn’t hold back, it really pulls at those heartstrings. Daniel Audritt and Kat Butterfield also do a terrific job of capturing that classic British (mostly Northern) avoidance of expressing emotion or affection, it’s incredibly relatable and hits the nail on the head. As well as of course capturing that need to clear away unfinished business before your time comes to an end.
It’s shot well, it’s got the clinical edge of the hospice setting so Audritt and Butterfield balance that with plenty of colour. The cinematography from Hamish Anderson has a great clarity and depth. The aesthetic feels modern but warm, the directorial style embraces the comedic roots but doesn’t overly try to push the laughs. Partially in thanks to the great editing work from Hettie Griffiths, which keeps things flowing nicely, despite its groundhog style plot, it never feels stuck in the same moment, it has a good momentum to it.
Life Goes On is funny, moving and showcases yet another brilliant performance from David Bradley, who simply never disappoints. He’s well supported by the ensemble, particularly by Maggie Steed who is just wonderful, and no sane person is ever going to complain about an appearance from the utterly lovable Matt Berry. Daniel Audritt and Kat Butterfield hit you right in the heart with his one, in a tearjerking but very enjoyable way.
FilmCarnage.com 