The Long Day Closes Review

Long Day Closes, The
Bud is a lonely 11-year-old boy in 1950s Liverpool. The film follows his doleful journey through everyday life, from his family, past his school and its bullies to his beloved cinema.

by Lloyd Bradley |
Published on
Release Date:

01 Jan 1992

Running Time:

85 minutes

Certificate:

PG

Original Title:

Long Day Closes, The

An autobiographical piece of delicate and meticulous filmmaking from British director Terence Davies, this revels in arty details — getting that shot of light falling onto a carpet just right — which, though undeniably affecting, show a typically British pendant for self-absorption. Recreating the terraced box and cobbled street of his 50s youth in Liverpool, Davies patches together the gentle dramas of the everyday — neighbours paying a visit, a street party — as seen through the eyes of 11 -year-old Bud (Leigh McCormack), who stands in for the director. Bud is solitary character who finds solace in the cinema, and Davies successfully weaves clips from classic films into the narrative.

Though Davies says this is a celebration of what were the best years of his life — he had a doting mum, nice sisters, and school was apparently okay — you'd hate to see what he'd produce if he were depressed, for the overall mood is heavy and glum.
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