
FilmInk
At a time when Wheatley’s native England is still in the middle of a pretty volatile separation period, this film’s examination of hostility, but also the need for peace, feels especially needed.
Full reviewTragicomedy from English filmmaker Ben Wheatley (Sightseers). Colin (Neil Maskell) hires a lavish country manor for his large extended family to celebrate New Year. When his black sheep brother (Sam Riley) unexpectedly arrives, the already cantankerous family dynamic is thrown far off orbit.
At a time when Wheatley’s native England is still in the middle of a pretty volatile separation period, this film’s examination of hostility, but also the need for peace, feels especially needed.
Full reviewWhy should we care about this unhappy family when their unhappiness is neither distinctive nor memorable? If we have to rely simply on the quality of the insults, all is lost.
Full reviewUltimately, this comedy of bad manners is compelling in the way of Yorgos Lanthimos (The Killing of a Sacred Deer, The Favourite) where you watch, wide-eyed, unable to look away. Some may find that Colin Burstead doesn’t quite reach those ecstatic heights, but if you have a heart for British misanthropy, this one’s for you.
Full reviewSome may find it a little too stagey, others won't appreciate the dark humour, but, during this holiday season, Happy New Year, Colin Burstead might make you thankful that your family isn't as dysfunctional as this one.
Full reviewSome may find it a little too stagey, others won't appreciate the dark humour, but, during this holiday season, Happy New Year, Colin Burstead might make you thankful that your family isn't as dysfunctional as this one.
Full reviewBen Wheatley strips things way back for his nerve-raddled family reunion comedy, and the result is one of his best, most fluid films.
Full reviewEvery minute of this film has something of interest, every frame is well composed. And yet I admit I found there was something a bit contrived and unreal about it, like an epic improv session.
Full reviewThis never quite feels entirely its own film. As a display of terrific acting, however, Happy New Year... comes up trumps.
Full reviewPlenty of classy ingredients here, but Wheatley's tentative first foray into the realm of adult drama is not the heart-bruising emotional assault course it could have been.
Full reviewGet to your watchlist.
Or sign in with your email
Don’t have a Flicks account?
Keep track of the movies and show you want to see + get Flicks email updates.
Or sign up with your email
Already have a Flicks account?
Don’t have a Flicks account?
Remembered your password?
To post ratings/reviews we need a username. This is what will appear next to your ratings and reviews.