FILM REVIEW: Tortoise in Love

Set in the small British village of Kingston Bagpuize, Tortoise in Love is a very sweet movie.  This romantic comedy bought together the whole of the small town, with locals helping with catering, the budget and even costumes and props. Over 400 local residents volunteered to help make this movie, working alongside the local writer who directed the film, Guy Browning, to make it something a bit special.

Tortoise in Love follows local resident, Tom (Tom Mitchelson), as a gardener who finds it hard to talk to women, but also finds himself falling in love with the au pair of the young Harry (Tom Yates), whose garden he works on. Tom is someone who moves very slowly when it comes to girls, but the whole town comes together to help him. The au pair, Anya, is played by the very beautiful Alice Zawadski and together with Tom Mitchelson, the two have great on screen chemistry.

The cast is full of unknowns, and it was also the first major acting roles for the main characters. This gives the movie a more realistic feel, and the acting from the likes of Tom and Alice is expectional. The supporting cast is also great with Kate Terence, Anna Scott and Sharon Gavin all adding a touch of light heartedness and fun, as Alice’s on-screen friends and confidants. We hope to see a lot more from Tom Mitchelson and Alice Zawadski, as each did a fantastic job with their roles. Both are characters watchers will immediately fall and root for. Tom Yates is another actor that gives a stand-out performance, especially given his age. He plays Harry very well and has some wise and reassuring moments as Tom’s advisor in matters of the heart.

At just 84 minutes, it’s a relatively short movie, but given the setting and storyline, the length is perfect. It is a classic Rom-Com, and is peppered with some very funny, witty one liners. You can truly feel the community spirit while watching the film. Given the nature of this summer as one to celebrate Britishness, with the Olympics and Jubilee, this British movie fits perfectly.

Tortoise in Love is released on the 12^th July.

Rating: 8/10

Written by: Sherin Malick

Tags: Alice Zawadzki, Guy Browning, Tom Mitchelson, Tom Yates, Tortoise in Love