16 Years Of Alcohol opens with its main character, Frankie (Kevin Mckidd), as he lies in the gutter, apparently dying after a vicious beating at the hands of an unseen assailant. the rest of the film is shown as a flashback leading up to that point. The film is split into three sections: from Frankie's early years as a child looking up to a hard drinking, womanising father, through his violent teenage years as the leader of a skinhead gang, and finally to his desperate attempts to break the cycle of self destruction and make something of his life. What elevates this tale above many similar stories is the compelling performances given by the actors. Right down to the bit part players, there is a complete and easy suspension of disbelief. Directorially, too, Richard Jobson's debut is full of abiding images that linger long after the final credits. It may not be the happiest movie on offer, but by the end you are hooked on hope.
Jesse Gumbarge is editor and chief blogger at JarvisCity.com - He loves old-school horror films and starting pointless debates. You can reach out at: JesseGumbarge@JarvisCity.com
