Bright Young Things film review

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BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS

Proving that there is no end to his talent, Stephen Fry's directorial debut is one of the best British films of the year. Based on Evelyn Waugh's biting satire Vile Bodies, the film is a coruscating account of the shallowness of pre-war high society, particularly amongst the young and restless of the time. Hilarious and touching in equal measure, it's a triumphant beginning to a directorial career.

The film begins with a glorious recreation of a debauched party for the young glitterati of London in the late 30s. Filled with scandal for the time such as overt homosexuality and drug taking, it's not long before the press photographers are on the trail of the sordid goings-on. At the centre of the party is Adam Symes (Stephen Campbell Moore), a sophisticate in name and standing but unfortunately one without two pennies to rub together.

When his novel is confiscated by the customs on the grounds of being a threat to society's morals, young Adam finds himself in a pickle: an irate publisher (Dan Aykroyd), a needy girlfriend (Emily Mortimer) and a hectic social lifestyle to fund. As the paparazzi and gossip culture becomes more and more prevalent he has no option but to turn spy and report for one of the social columns.

Thus we are launched into a beautifully portrayed version of a London on the verge of losing its innocence. The empty lives led by the young and restless (notably Mortimer's dippy girlfriend) are put into a harsh light by Fry's brutal and relentless camera.

Don't be put off by the star names on the poster. Fry does cast many of his famous friends but they are very much in supporting roles. Jim Broadbent is on top form as drunken Major, Julia Mackenzie shines as the landlady to an increasingly bedraggled Adam and even John Mills pops up as a coke-snorting party-goer.

However, it's the cast of relative newcomers which stand out. Stephen Campbell Moore is perfectly cast in the lead role and Fenella Woolgar as his ditzy friend almost steals the show with a hilarious scene involving the Prime Minister. Look out for these two names and look for Bright Young Things come awards time.