Meantime

Synopsis

Meantime is a British drama film directed by Mike Leigh, released in 1983. The story follows the lives of the working-class Pollack family in East London, focusing on their struggles, dreams, and relationships within the economically depressed community. The main characters, including the unemployed Colin (played by Tim Roth) and his brother Mark (played by Phil Daniels), navigate through their mundane existence, looking for meaning and purpose in a seemingly bleak world. As tensions rise and frustrations mount, the film delves into themes of social alienation, family dynamics, and the harsh realities of poverty, capturing the raw essence of life in Thatcher-era Britain.

Cast

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  Phil Daniels

  Mark

• 

  Tim Roth

  Colin

• Jeffrey Robert

  Frank

• 

  Pam Ferris

  Mavis

• 

  Gary Oldman

  Coxy

• 

  Marion Bailey

  Barbara

Reviews

Meantime has garnered praise for its raw and authentic portrayal of working-class life in 1980s Britain. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a solid approval rating of 80%, with critics lauding the film for its gritty realism and compelling performances. Metacritic scores Meantime at 69/100, indicating generally favorable reviews from critics. IMDb rates the movie at 7.2/10, reflecting the audience's appreciation for the film's honest depiction of societal struggles and human resilience. Critics have described Meantime as a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, highlighting the talented ensemble cast and director Mike Leigh's nuanced storytelling. The film's relevance and impact have stood the test of time, making it a classic of British cinema.