'Benjamin' (2018) is a British comedy-drama written and directed by Simon Amstell whose work previous work includes 'Carnage' (2017) a mocumentary set in 2067 that explores an alternate reality where veganism is the societal norm. 'Benjamin' is the second film from Amstell, a romantic-comedy drama that explores the character of an awkward screenwriter who struggles with his inability of falling in love.
The film follows the main protagonist, Benjamin played by Colin Morgan (Merlin, Humans) a screenwriter whose awkward character is self-reflective of Simon Amstell’s own experience as a 'gay vegan film writer' who is continuously taunted by self-doubt and his inability to love. Morgan captures the quirky comedic personality of Amstell whilst exposing the inner turmoil that haunts the writer who frequently spirals into an existential crisis. The main plot of the film focuses on Benjamin’s affection for a young French singer Noah (Phénix Brossard) who challenges Benjamin’s confidence as an individual as well as a writer. Amstell beautifully captures the cliché shot of ‘love at first sight’ with the camera remaining static on Benjamin as he is left utterly transfixed by Noah. The film explores an artist in crisis, presenting the complexities and pressure of producing consistent high-quality work that is left to be scrutinized by critics. Benjamin’s insistence on including a scene of a monk in his film and his incapability of being relaxed around Noah provides several comedic scenes that forces the viewer to empathise and love his awkward personality. This is a film that tackles the complex issues of identity, sexuality and love accompanied by the brilliant original score composed by James Righton (Klaxons). 'Benjamin' is quite a short film and does leave the viewer with a lot of questions but it fits Amstell’s style of direction. Overall, this is a fantastic and beautifully executed story, and I would highly recommend checking it out. You can watch the trailer in the link above, and if you have any film recommendations then send your suggestions over on my Instagram stories @conversationswithkeiko.
'Benjamin': 5/5
'Benjamin' Directed by Simon Amstell, Starring Colin Morgan, Phénix Brossard, Anna Chancellor, Jack Rowan, Jessica Raine, featuring original music by James Righton. Production Company: Open Palm Films
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