John Leaver
You can tell that this film was made on a small budget but it's nonetheless clever and affecting. It interweaves a number of stories on Tooting Common, a green open space with walkers, children, dogs, drinkers, homeless people, all sorts. One strand involves an escaped parrot; another features a very pregnant woman who eventually gives birth on the common and has to be helped by a scout master and a bunch or fascinated and repelled scouts; a third concerns an old couple, still in love but thinking about the end - the woman suggests buying mobility scooters and doing a Thelma and Louise off Beachy Head! It's not twee at all, it's quite upfront. I really admired what the two directors managed without much money - it's a sweet and inspiring effort.
Maria Simmans
Shot entirely on one South London Common,this film celebrates the diversity of "ordinary" people in an "ordinary" location.Stories expected and startling,brought to the screen by some beautifully crafted and often understated performances.You may never look at a park bench in quite the same way again.... When I booked my ticket to see the film at Clapham Picture House and realised it was 90 minutes long,I did wonder if there might be some boring bits.Not the case as the action is perfectly measured and moves around the Common.Judging from the reactions around me,it was great to recognise favourite spots too! Go while you can,I am planning a second visit.Stay if you can for the Q & A session for more insight on the making of this great film.
emilyfoy
A reminder that you don't need big budgets, special effects and Oscars to have a truly fabulous film.Funny, silly, and touching in equal measure this is one of those films where you just don't know why you like it, but you do. The characters are plausible and likable, the story lines veer from the ridiculous to the heart wrenchingly plausible and the simplicity allows the focus to remain on the hub of the plot, the inter relationship of normal people, warts and all. It isn't always pretty, it isn't always kind but it is unavoidably real. Its life.A film that you leave feeling content and happy, proud to be not just a Tootonian, not just a Londoner, but a human being.A triumph.
amy-622
I was lucky enough to see Common People at a private screening.It's touching, heart-warming, and hilarious.The performances both from seasoned actors and those new to the craft are wonderful.This production is beautifully written and perfectly executed.I don't want to say too much because there are some lovely twists and turns.The film has already won an award, I think it's the first of many for this talented team.I hope it goes on general release so that I can take more people to see it.If you get a chance to see it ... take it.
AD
