Main Cast: Sean McGinley, Ger Ryan, Neili Conroy, Barry Ward
Release Year: 1994
Country: UK
Run Time: 119 minutes
Plot
This British drama, condensed from a four hour televised mini-series, explores the darker side of a working-class family. The Spencers are a classically dysfunctional family. The patriarch, Charlo is a loutish, domineering brute who physically and emotionally batters his wife Paula and their children, John Paul and Nicola, a teenage factory worker. He makes his living as a small-time thief. Like many abusers, Charlo is perfectly charming to others not in his family; he has frequent affairs. John Paul looks as if he will grow up in his daddy's image. Nicola, nearing sexual maturity, is frequently eyed by him. At first, Paula puts up with her husband, believing things may eventually improve, but in time she fights back and eventually gives him the boot. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
Cast
Sean McGinley - Charlo Spencer
Ger Ryan - Paula Spencer
Neili Conroy - NIcola Spencer
Barry Ward - John Paul
Desmond McAleer - Ray Harris
Credit
Michael Winterbottom - Director, Trevor Waite - Editor, Elvis Costello - Composer (Music Score), John Harle - Composer (Music Score), Kieran Horgan - Musical Direction/Supervision, Mark Geraghty - Production Designer, Daf Hobson - Cinematographer, Michael Wearing - Producer, Andrew Eaton - Producer, Roddy Doyle - Screenwriter
