Life Is Sweet

REVIEW
Leigh follows his wickedly satirical High Hopes with this mirthful and touching slice of middle-class life set in the English Midlands. Taking on the notion of family dysfunctionality, the film follows the daily trials of a middle-aged couple (Steadman, Broadbent) and their twentysomething twin daughters -- one an aspiring plumber (Skinner), the other an aspiring radical feminist (Horrocks). The common obsession in the film is food. Dad's a chef in a hotel kitchen, family friend Aubrey (Spall) is gonzo over the gourmet restaurant he's opening and Horrocks is an anorexic/bulimic. Leigh masterfully takes this soap opera situation and creates a wry, witty comedy filled with social commentary and a surprising amount of tender moments. Horrocks deserves special attention for her portrayal of the family's scapegoat.