The Old Oak

Approaches a few important topics in a way that's not intelligent or thoughtful, whether thematically or narratively. There's a constant frustration throughout the whole film, as it does engage in that typical Loach way with its grounded realism, but then disengages when it shows how little Loach knows about the kinds of people he's even portraying. For someone who's been making good films for so long, this comes across as highly sophomoric.

Exactly what you'd expect from Loach. Sharp social commentary with a predictable emotional rollercoaster.

This was the first Loach film I've seen and I feel I probably didn't really get it - or him. Its heart is in the right place, and it did have a certain charm, but as a movie it felt somehow stiff. It's very predictable, and both the actors and the dialogue are kind of awkward. Which I think is very deliberate, but I feel like I'm not left with much of anything. He's quite a highly rated director but this movie feels like a good idea more than anything else. But it does have its moments.

filmekimi'23 - atlas 1948

I cannot help but (sadly) feel Ken Loach's three latest films are somewhat exploitative, with this one being #1. Surely enough, I am not saying that Loach is trying to make quick money with poorly produced films, but I am saying that his films started offering me nothing fresh and it feels a bit repetitive.

Very predictable and a little sanitised. But Ken loach is always a worthy watch.

Should be mandatory viewing.

Another great message but the used Ken Loach teabag needs a change.

A movie you could expect from Ken Loach. Also a commentary on 1980's miners strike, it is interesting that Loach has not discussed that in his fiction before, perhaps a topic too close.