My Brother the Devil

Sally El Hosaini's debut feature is a remarkably slick and confident coming-of-age tale about two immigrant brothers embroiled in Hackney's violent gang culture. When the elder brother (James Floyd) decides to get out of the drug trade following an ungly murder, his naive younger brother (Fady Elsayed) tries to step into his shoes.

Both leads are impressive, particularly Floyd in the more challenging role. Much of the plot is driven by his discovery that he may be gay and his first steps with a male lover. But, ironically, while its impact is felt, we barely see the relationship itself. With actors this good, it's hard not feel cheated out of more scenes, and there's a sense that much of what could have been has been sacrificed for mainstream appeal.

That aside, there's still much to recommend. The quickfire street-slang crackles, there's plenty of tension, and the stunning visuals remind us that beauty and love can thrive in the most unlikely places. [Scotty McKellar]