17/12
Bailey lives with her brother Hunter and father Bug, who raise them alone in a squat in north Kent. Bug doesn’t have much time to devote to them. Bailey seeks attention and adventure elsewhere. Barry Keoghan left Gladiator II (2024) to star in this film. Edited by Fontaines D.C.: Bug (2024). Too Real Written by: Grian Chatten, Connor Curley, Connor Deegan III, Tom Cole and Carlos O’Connell Directed by Fontaines D.C. This is an excellent coming-of-age story, reminiscent of “Wild Diamond”, but in my opinion executed even better. We follow the life of Bailey, a 12-year-old girl living in the poor areas of the United Kingdom. From the beginning, it is clear that Bailey sees the world differently than those around her. Nature, animals and especially birds symbolize freedom and lightness, a feeling that is conveyed vividly. Bailey meets Bird, a character who embodies the person she aspires to become. She initially mocks Bird, but eventually her mockery turns to admiration. Bailey faces several challenges, and Bird subtly guides her toward a solution. Some questions remain unanswered, but for me, specific answers are not important. The journey and growth that Bailey experiences is what really matters.