The warnings before this was shown on E4 couldn't have been clearer: this film is near the knuckle. As I was feeling in a gloomy mood anyway, it seemed the ideal time to finally get round to watching it.Less than a minute into it and I'm already disgusted. And I don't disgust easily.What works brilliantly is the way Olivia Colman and Peter Mullan's characters interact and come alive. They may have lives at totally different ends of the social scale but both of their lives are touched by violence and suffering. Despite Hannah's patient attempts to help Joseph, the aggression that has clearly played a large part in his life is never far below his craggy surface. Her own inner rage flares up too, sometimes towards Joseph but even her abusive wanker of a husband. Interesting that Hannah's Christian values didn't allow her to forgive Joseph after his harsh words about her personal life. The irony of the joyously alive-ness of the wake is not lost on me. Very well done.The ending left me feeling a tad let-down. Without spoiling it, the final consequences seem unfair to me. Yes the characters have shown progression but it was the physical position in which Colman finds herself that I didn't feel was justified. I also would have preferred if Joseph had 'discussed things' with the dog's owner.

Superb performances by both Olivia Colman and Pete Mullen, who star in this raw, gritty story of repeated, hard hitting material.Directed by Paddy Considine, another who is more than familiar with the great British Drama and actor driven films.Truly unmissable, a powerhouse of a film, that once seen, will never be forgotten!

This is my absolute favourite Peter Mullan film. He is incredible in this movie. I watch it behind closed fingers, as at times its a bit too much, but he is such a complicated monster in this film. If you're a Mullan fan, like me, then you HAVE to make this top of the list. Olivia Coleman is also brilliant in this. I hope the director makes more films, as he is definitely a talent. If i had a criticism of the film, its that it feels more like a TV drama than a film at times, but the acting and the way its written raise it up to being an amazing experience. I would hesitate to recommend this film. As long as you have a strong stomach.

Peter Mullan is one to take a very similar character in a number of his films, yet each is different in their own way and relate to the viewer a good new story.He leads the film along with Olivia Colman in a down to earth and very gritty movie based in Yorkshire (England), directed by Paddy Considine. We find Mullan's drunken violent character wishing to turn the page and relent, so finds solace in Olivia Colman's character's Christian & charitable nature. However, not all is as it seems and the victim becomes the helper and the helper is one who really needs the help, trapped in a violent and frightening marriage with a dark secret.This isn't a film about directing as such, although is a debut for Considine who does a great job. The film is about the themes, acting and story, and that is a gem.It's harrowing to watch but still gripping. Certain aspects you've seen before, but it's a change from the celebrity obsessed film fare we're used to.It plays like a good theatre play, and there's lots to admire here. Olivia Colman as the main victim in this film (admittedly amongst a set of them) is fabulous in this role, and you'll ride the difficult emotional journey with her.I'd say give it a go if you're interested in some gritty drama. A good directorial debut, and Mullan is again great to watch.