High Hopes (1988)

High Hopes is a gem from Mike Leigh, the master of impromptu dialog, that I would watch again and again to witness human dynamics that are often shocking, though ultimately reassuring. Set in London, two thirtysomething couples that are polar opposites interact with each other, with the elderly mother of humble Cyril and unhinged Valerie, and with several others. Valerie is a real piece of work, with her manic laughter, self-centeredness, and toadying to the rich. She is likely a narcissist who is hollow inside. (She is quite aggravating, but we also see some of her pain, which humanizes her.) Cyril's 10-year partner Shirley is kindhearted, while Valerie's husband is a womanizer. The frail and elderly mother is the center of the story, however. She is treated so poorly by everyone but Cyril and Shirley that I can only imagine, behind her pained expression, that she is lamenting how she raised such a daughter and how difficult the rest of her life has now become -- but there is hope. High Hopes flows because of its long takes and an intimate chemistry between the actors; you may never doubt they are family members with a long history together. Even the rich neighbors are insufferable in their own smug narrative. You have to listen closely to catch all the dialog. Enjoy! 4.5 stars. (8-11-2016)