Submarine

The film 'Submarine' is a coming-of-age drama directed by Richard Ayoade, exploring the complexities of adolescence and the pitfalls of first love. The movie is set in the picturesque Welsh coastal town of Swansea, where 15-year-old Oliver Tate navigates the treacherous waters of high school social politics and romantic entanglements. Oliver, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, is a deep-thinking, awkward, and slightly eccentric teenager who finds solace in observing the world around him. He spends most of his time daydreaming, scribbling poetry, and watching old David Bowie concert footage. Oliver's life outside of school is marked by his own peculiarities, including an obsession with the 1976 film 'The Man Who Fell to Earth' and a bizarre fascination with the supernatural. However, Oliver's mundane existence is disrupted by the arrival of his classmate Jordana Bevan, played by Yasmin Paige, a stunning and enigmatic dark-haired beauty. Jordana is a rebellious free spirit, and Oliver becomes immediately smitten with her. Desperate to impress Jordana and get close to her, Oliver embarks on a series of awkward attempts at wooing her, often bordering on the ridiculous. Oliver's overtures are met with a mix of frustration and indifference from Jordana, who seems immune to his charms. Meanwhile, Oliver's parents, played by Sally Hawkins and Paddy Considine, are going through their own marital crises. His mother is contemplating an affair with a charming but unscrupulous married man, while his father is struggling to reconnect with his wife. As Oliver's relationship with Jordana falters, his parents' marriage begins to disintegrate. The two storylines intersect in a poignant and often hilarious portrayal of the chaos that ensues when adolescence and adulthood collide. Oliver's attempts to salvage both his relationship with Jordana and his parents' marriage serve as a backdrop for exploring the complexities of human relationships and the fragility of adolescent emotions. One of the key themes of the movie is the idea of facade vs. reality. Oliver, his family, and his friends all present a carefully constructed public image, which they desperately try to maintain. However, beneath the surface, secrets and lies simmer, threatening to explode at any moment. As Oliver navigates this treacherous landscape, he must confront the reality of his own emotions, desires, and the people around him. Through his struggles with Jordana and his parents, Oliver learns valuable lessons about the impermanence of relationships and the importance of honesty. As he grapples with his own identity and place in the world, Oliver begins to shed his awkward, teenage skin and emerge as a more confident and self-assured individual. The film's visual style, courtesy of director Richard Ayoade, is a key element in capturing the offbeat, quirky essence of Oliver's world. The cinematography is characterized by a muted color palette, which effectively conveys the gloominess and uncertainty that pervades Oliver's life. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of retro pop classics and modern indie rock, adds to the film's nostalgic and melancholic atmosphere. Ultimately, 'Submarine' is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. With its witty dialogue, quirky characters, and heartfelt performances, the movie is a delightful and engaging ride that will resonate with audiences of all ages. While Oliver's journey is often marked by failure and heartache, it is also a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, demonstrating that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and self-discovery.