Life Is Sweet (1990 Mike Leigh & scr)

I find it unbelievable that this didn't win any BAFTAs or even get nominated - the performances of Alison Steadman and Jane Horrocks are world class, not to mention Jim Broadbent, Claire Skinner (it was seeing her in the audience of 'An Ideal Husband' that reminded me to rewatch it in the first place), Timothy Spall, Stephen Rea, David Thewlis and Moya Brady.

Horrocks' character is extremely messed up, but so in varying degrees are those of Spall (really quite violent), Rea and Brady. Spall drunk, smashing up his restaurant, is hilarious. Terrific, subtle writing.

Prawn with jam maybe one thing, but my favourite of Aubrey's truly horrible menu is saveloy on a bed of lychees.

Rachel Portman's simple score is wonderful. Shot by Dick Pope (our copy is in the rather odd ratio of 1.62:1) and edited by Jon Gregory (interesting CV).