Synopsis- When half-brothers Omar and Pete lose the grandmother they grew up with, they are left with nothing to their name and no one else to call family but each other. They decide to set off for Blackpool together, in search of Omar’s estranged father
Director- Jason Wingard
Cast- Antonio Aakeel, Jack Carroll, Johnny Vegas, Asim Chaudhry
Released- 2018
In Eaten By Lions, director Jason Wingard serves up a delightful cinematic dish that blends heartfelt storytelling with an irreverent sense of humour. Set against the backdrop of Blackpool’s vibrant seaside, this comedy-drama takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of laughter and unexpected warmth.
At its core, “Eaten By Lions” is a tale of family, identity, and the bonds that tie us together. Following the misadventures of half-brothers Omar and Pete, portrayed with infectious charm by Antonio Aakeel and Jack Carroll respectively, the film explores themes of belonging and acceptance with genuine sincerity. Their journey to find Omar’s estranged biological father leads them on a series of hilariously absurd encounters, each one more outrageous than the last.
What sets “Eaten By Lions” apart is its ability to balance belly laughs with moments of genuine emotion. The screenplay, penned by Wingard and David Isaac, crackles with sharp wit and memorable one-liners, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. Yet amidst the comedic chaos, there are poignant reflections on family dynamics and the search for one’s place in the world.
The ensemble cast shines brightly, with standout performances from a roster of British talent. The brothers’ eccentric grandmother, played with scene-stealing gusto by the incomparable Johnny Vegas, delivers some of the film’s most memorable moments. Meanwhile, Vicki Pepperdine and Kevin Eldon excel as the quirky residents of Blackpool, adding layers of eccentricity to the film’s vibrant tapestry.
Visually, “Eaten By Lions” captures the kitschy charm of its seaside setting, with cinematographer Matt North expertly capturing the colourful faded beauty of Blackpool. The film’s vibrant palette serves as the perfect backdrop for the larger-than-life characters who inhabit this world, adding to the film’s overall sense of whimsy.
While “Eaten By Lions” may not reinvent the wheel when it comes to comedy dramas, its heart is firmly in the right place. Beneath its zany exterior lies a touching story about love, family, and the power of acceptance. Wingard’s direction strikes a perfect balance between humour and heart, ensuring that audiences will leave the cinema with smiles on their faces and warmth in their hearts.
In conclusion, “Eaten By Lions” is a delightful cinematic treat that offers laughs aplenty and a surprisingly touching story at its core. With its winning performances, witty script, and colourful visuals, it’s a film that deserves to be savoured like a bag of seaside candy. Don’t miss this quirky gem – it’s a roaring good time from start to finish.
Roses Have Thoughts 
Leave a comment