Summer

Robert Carlyle gives a career-best performance in a deeply affecting take on two men’s friendship. Through flashbacks presented by narrator Shaun, we are introduced to our two main characters; Shaun (Carlyle), the local bad boy and his partner in crime Daz (Evets). As they go from boys to men, we see their bond of friendship put to the test. While occasionally bleak, Summer does well to avoid the usual Hollywood clichés and delivers honest, realistic characters and a story that everyone should find appealing. And of course it wouldn’t be a Brit flick without a weighty message but it’s not forced on us and never detracts from the unfolding drama. Carlyle gives a heart wrenching performance destined to make you forget all about his Trainspotting days and, at the same time, reminds us what a unique and diverse actor he really is. [Kevin McHugh]