It would seem to be a betrayal to discuss in any detail the plot of What Richard Did; specifically to explain what, exactly, Richard (Jack Reynor) did would do the film a disservice. It is sufficient to say this is a deeply-felt, emotionally-complex drama concerning Richard – handsome, charismatic teenage rugby star – and leave it at that.
Director Lenny Abrahamson has an interesting approach to the material. What Richard Did has a naturalistic, improvisational feel for the most part, but that’s contrasted with its appearance: a cool, palette and crisp, sharp framing. It’s fitting for a film that’s simultaneously a rough edged portrait of a real person and a larger parable about morality. About how the choices we make – individually, in groups, as a society – are mixed up in the tangled threads of right and wrong, fair and unfair, selfish and selfless.
The moments when Abrahamson relinquishes the authentic tone are deliberate and effective. The conclusion, in particular, is an ellipsis that resonates because it forces the audience to reflect on themselves, to consider themselves in the context of the film’s events and decisions. What Richard Did is a singular film, eliciting a poignant emotional response while provoking intellectual analysis. Recommended.
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Glad you liked this Dave, I thought it was excellent. I thought Jack Reynor was brilliant. It really does throw up questions about what you’d do if you made one silly mistake that could potentially ruin your entire life.
Definitely – and if it was even a silly mistake at all, or representative of one’s true character. Reynor was truly fantastic; I wanted to talk about his performance but didn’t have enough to say to break out of the 200 word limit nor the space to fit it in!
I have meant to see this for some time. Your review just jumped it up my priority list.
Great work, Dave!
Cheers. I think you’ll like this a lot
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