ianj-30846 I have read so many conflicting reviews of this incredible film I was wondering if I had been watching the same film. This is a wonderful movie, which is one everyone should see. It focuses on Skunk, a young girl just entering secondary school who lives with her father and brother in a cul-de-sac somewhere in London. But it is so much more. telling the story of three families in total, their struggles, failures and just trying to make sense of their lives. Tim Roth is masterful as the dad who just wants the best for his family after their mum has left, equally Rory Kinnear is brilliant as the father of three wayward girls in who is trying to protect them but unable to understand exactly what from. Violent at times, and heartbreaking.

paul2001sw-1 Rufus Norris' film 'Broken' tells the story of a linked series of events that take place on a suburban estate from a variety of perspectives. It has all the indie clichés, including the wide-eyed pre-pubescent female teen protagonist, a weedy folksy soundtrack, and a fairly clumsy portrayal of the difference between the respectable middle class and the underclass (who strangely, in this story, live directly side-by-side). The plot, however, features 4 deaths, 2 beatings following false accusations of rape, and another near death, so it's not exactly authentic "slice-of-life" stuff. Ultimately it feels like a debut movie, Norris actually puts the pieces together with some imagination, but the story never quite feels authentic.

Chris Smith (RockPortReview) The British independent film "Broken" broke through in the UK in 2012 with a quite a splash, winning a number of awards. The film however has sort of flown under the radar as it wasn't released in the US until last Summer by Film Movement. Its the dramatic coming of age story of an 11 year old girl affectionately named Skunk. She is played by first time actor Eloise Laurence, who gives a remarkably real and thoughtful performance. This is also the first feature film for director Rufus Norris.Skunk lives within a cul-de-sac in suburban London with her Dad Archie, played by Tim Roth, and older brother Jed. Her mother ran off with another man years back. They have a live in nanny, Kasia, who serves as a sort of mother or big sister figure. Cillian Murphy also puts forth a strong performance as Mike, Kasia's boyfriend and Skunk's crush. The stories of the three families within the cul-de-sac are all compelling and well integrated into Skunk's world. We open with Skunk talking to Rick, an older friend but mentally unstable neighbor, who out of nowhere get a savage beating from Mr. Oswald, the fiery father of a trio of foul mouthed daughters who are also without a mother.Adding to the many difficulties of adolescence, Skunk also has diabetes. She could be bitter and angry about her situation, but is very resilient and strong. She is adventurous, inquisitive and full of wonder, where as the girls next door are petty, vile, and just plain unpleasant. The two families are dealing with similar issue in very different ways. While the third family, Rick's Family, tries to keep to themselves and protect there son from the world. Rick is a volatile man child. He has a gentle and sweet exterior that fights with his inner rage and turmoil. After becoming to much of a handful for his parents to deal with he is put up in a hospital. Skunk see the good in him, the longing to be normal and accepted. The final 30 minutes will keep you on the edge of your seat with a an intensity that is hard to find. I know that sound a little clichéd, but the filmmakers took such care in developing the story and building its characters that the ending just works on every level. You won't be disappointed.

zachary_tyler87 The only reason I gave this movie any stars is for the cinematography. This movie is shot on 35mm film and looks very amazing expect for a few poorly framed shots. As for the tone of this film, it is very grey, highly depressing and frustrating. It took half the movie to determine everyone's relationship to each other. The three red headed trashy girl's and their crazy dad really annoyed me. Tasteless characters for a tasteless story I suppose. Every time those red headed monsters where on screen it gave me a crummy feeling in my gut. Not the type of feeling I respect. I felt like their was a lot of wasted talent on this film. And sometimes it seemed like a few scenes could have used another take that was possibly not done due to the budget on film stock.My final piece of criticism is the title, "Broken". It lacks a direct connection to the story and comes off as a generic last minute idea. Why not "Smashed" or "Damaged" or "Disassembled"? They all are just as generic as Broken. "It's called Broken, because everyone is broken and their faces get broken." Really? is that the best you can do? Good music. Random editing. This movie makes me happy I'm Canadian.