Director: Dexter Fletcher
Writer: Stephen Greenhorn
Starring: Peter Mullan, Jane Horrocks, George MacKay, Kevin Guthrie, Freya Mavor
Runtime: 100 min
Rating: PG
For a musical to be effective, one must be willing to buy into the principle of the absurd. Sunshine on Leith, a musical based around the iconic music of the Scottish band The Proclaimers, opens with two young men singing in a convoy driving through Afghanistan, which may not be the most realistic scene. Fortunately, however, this film is a well-crafted musical picture that encourages one to forget their cynicisms and to buy into its story, resulting in a fun and toe-tapping time at the movies.
The film version of Sunshine on Leith, directed by Dexter Fletcher, is based on Stephen Greenhorn’s stage musical of the same name. Davy (George MacKay) and Ally (Kevin Guthrie) have recently returned from military service in Afghanistan, both unhurt and with new convictions to enjoy every minute of their young lives. Both find love, Davy with the beautiful Yvonne (Antonia Thomas), and Ally with Davy’s equally lovely sister, Liz (Freya Mavor). Meanwhile, Davy and Ally’s parents prepare to celebrate their milestone twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. The three relationships may initially appear to be idyllic, however, each pair faces unique challenges that they must overcome in order to achieve happiness in love.
Sunshine on Leith is a light and enjoyable movie musical full of catchy and recognizable songs. Moments of emotion are punctuated with musical numbers, as the actors sing and dance their way through the film with infectious enthusiasm. Songs are always integrated into scenes at appropriate moments, and never appear forced or contrived, working their way into the script as naturally as possible. The film is well paced, containing neither too many nor too few musical pieces, and those waiting for big musical numbers will not be disappointed. The scenic landscapes of Scotland are also featured in beautiful, sweeping cinematography that does not fail to impress.
Every character in this film is an agreeable and good person. Since there is no real antagonist in the piece, some may consider it to be a bit light on substance. However, with three romantic subplots running simultaneously, there is always a challenge to overcome, a character to root for, and a song to be sung. All actors perform their parts with eagerness and verve; although not every individual sings as well as the next, this flaw is easily forgotten in all the excitement, and the characters remain unfailingly likeable.
Sunshine on Leith is a fun film if one is willing to buy into the absurdity of musical theatre. Fletcher has created an effective film adaptation of a beloved stage musical, a feat that is not at all as easy as is often assumed. Great music and lovable characters appear throughout, and although the mood remains light, one cannot help but become invested in the fates of the individuals on screen. If one is willing to abandon their pretences and buy into its energy and enthusiasm, they will find a rewarding movie watching experience to be had in Sunshine on Leith.
Photo Credits: Toronto International Film Festival
