6. Kes (1969)
A gloom-athon of epic proportions, Kes was directed by the British master of social realism - Ken Loach. I could make a 10 depressing films list out of his films alone. Cathy Come Home anyone? 15 year old Billy Casper leads a miserable life. His older brother and his fellow schoolmates bully him verbally and physically. To relieve the tedium and pain in his life Billy indulges in petty theft and scuffles at school. His own mother thinks he is a hopeless case. Billy's life takes a turn for the better when he comes across a Kestrel that he adopts and trains. As he becomes bonded to the bird, Billy's life looks a lot brighter. However Billy uses money his brother left him to put a bet on the horses to buy himself chips and some meat for the bird. The horses win the race and his older brother kills the Kestrel in retaliation. Billy buries the bird. I am a real bird lover. I have two cockatiels and a pair of mated budgies. I enjoy birdwatching as well and I have names for all the birds who visit our garden. I can understand the bond Billy has with Kes, and I'm sure not just bird enthusiasts, but anyone with a cherished pet can appreciate the bond between pet and owner. To have your beloved pet killed is shocking - especially in Billy's case as it is the only thing he seems to give a toss about. Our heart is warmed by seeing Billy flourish with the bird. Maybe he does have a happier future. And then our hearts are broken by the bird's killing and we know Billy is condemned to a life down the mines. Kes is a sobering experience.