Film review: I, Daniel Blake (2016)

Directed by: Ken Loach

Written by: Paul Laverty

Starring: Dave Johns & Hayley Squires

You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, similarly you shouldn’t judge a film by its trailer, and that’s exactly what I did. I saw a trailer for I, Daniel Blake the last time I was at the pictures and I thought ‘yes, that’s going to be a goodun’.’ I, Daniel Blake seemed to have an allure, maybe not in the same way that Star Wars: The Force Awakens made its convincing argument but in an understated hidden gem sort of way. Sometimes I can overlook the latest British films, the giant that is Hollywood delights the masses with some absolute greats which dominate cinema listings, some movies get lost on the crowded radar, the last brit-flick I caught on its release was the nostalgic reboot of Dad’s Army, so I thought I would give I, Daniel Blake a look.

Set in the backdrop of Newcastle, Ken Loach’s film tells the story of Daniel Blake (Dave Johns), a skilled carpenter who is put out of work due to ill health and finds himself experiencing the frustrations and tribulations of state welfare.

Unpolished and flawed characters, living on the breadline with an underlying feeling of abandonment from the government, it all sounds very British doesn’t it? Just like a brisk slap around the face or a particularly potent cup of coffee, I, Daniel Blake carries a very sobering and solemn message. The film is careful not to be stayed, ensuring that the narrative is well paced and develops in a way that keeps you entertained. Katie (Hayley Squires) is a single mother who, much like Daniel Blake, faces a daily struggle to pay rent and even provide food on the table. It’s absolutely clear to me that when writing the screenplay, Paul Laverty really considered the characters individually and how their relationships with one another should develop. It could be said that this movie does have an air of predictability, however it’s not necessary about the destination, more the journey the characters go on.

This film’s thought-provoking premise and wonderful script is combined with a very talented cast, making I, Daniel Blake a film which resonates with many people, especially in this time of global austerity, and I am sure will go down in British cinema history as a truly remarkable film.  

I can certainly recommend seeing this one. 

Seen it? Let me know your thoughts below.