Shelter

Synopsis

Shelter is a gripping 2017 drama directed by Paul Bettany, starring Tosin Cole as Tahir, a young man recently released from prison who struggles to reintegrate into society and reconnect with his estranged family in London. The film explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the impact of choices under pressure, as Tahir navigates the challenges of rebuilding his life while confronting past mistakes. Alongside a powerful supporting cast, Shelter delves into the harsh realities faced by those on the margins, portraying both the internal and external battles for survival and human connection. The emotional depth and raw portrayal of post-incarceration life make Shelter a compelling and thought-provoking story.

Cast

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  Tosin Cole

  Ash

• 

  Jessica Hynes

  Wendie

• 

  Daisy Badger

  Receptionist

• Caroline Lazarus

  Mother

• Bina Patel

  Attendant

• Jyoti Shah

  Attendant's friend

Reviews

Critically, Shelter received a mixed but generally favorable response. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of approximately 60%, indicating a divided reception but with many praising its emotional depth and performances. The Guardian complimented Tosin Cole's 'engaging and nuanced portrayal' of Tahir but noted that the narrative occasionally fell into familiar tropes. IMDb users have rated Shelter around 6.3/10, pointing out its heartfelt story and strong acting, while also mentioning pacing issues and a sometimes predictable plot. Metacritic, which aggregates critic reviews, assigned Shelter a score of 55 out of 100, reflecting mixed or average reviews. Critics generally appreciated the film’s social commentary and character focus, highlighting the realistic depiction of life after prison. However, some felt the film could have explored its themes with greater subtlety and less melodrama. Overall, Shelter is recognized for its honest performances and solid storytelling, though it may not fully transcend the conventions of its genre.