Potter hosts a memorable Party
The Party (M, 71min) Directed by Sally Potter ★★★★
Sally Potter’s first film in five years is short and superbly bittersweet.
Known for her experimental works – 2004 Sam Neill-starrer Yes played out almost entirely in iambic pentameter – the now 68-year-old English writerdirector’s latest effort seems surprisingly straightforward in comparison. However, looks can be deceptive as this meticulously plotted, lovingly crafted chamber piece simmers with style, drips with tension and provides plenty of explosive moments.
The Party of the title is the one being held to celebrate Janet’s (Kristin Scott Thomas) promotion to the position of Shadow Minister for Health.
There to celebrate along with her seemingly morose husband Bill (Timothy Spall), are estranged couple April (an acerbic Patricia Clarkson) and Gottfried (Bruno Ganz), women’s studies professor Martha (Cherry Jones) and her talented culinary partner Jinny (Emily Mortimer), and the ‘‘w...er banker’’ husband (Cillian Murphy) of one of Janet’s colleague’s Marianne, who, as usual, is running late.
While the initial mood is congratulatory, it isn’t long before recriminations are aired, emotions are unrepressed (‘‘If you want to run this country, we’ll have to do something about your hair,’’ April tells Janet), feelings are hurt and vol au vents are burnt.
A cross between Death at a Funeral and a Mike Leigh/Woody Allen-style domestic drama, Potter’s twisty-turny narrative never feels forced if, at times, it strains credibility by how actionpacked one soiree can be.
Naturally, it’s also a terrific showcase for this fabulous cast, with indie-film favourite Clarkson (The Station Agent) and Scott Thomas (Darkest Hour) just shading the rest for ‘‘most memorable’’.
It helps that Potter gives them plenty to chew on, from meaty drama to cruel epithets and witty bon mots.
Couple that with the writerdirector’s decision to shoot in black-and-white and The Party not only never outstays its welcome, it also provides plenty of opportunities for post-viewing discussions and debate.
– James Croot