A man tries to escape his working-class life, but his family has other plans.
Colin Pasmore tests his strength against his family ties but finds them stronger than he ever imagined.
Acting
Alison Steadman delivers a masterclass in barely contained rage.
Writing
David Storey's dialogue cuts like a dull knife — hurts worse.
Director
Richard Eyre
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Richard Eyre filmed this during his legendary tenure at the BBC, where he pioneered gritty social realism on television before his National Theatre years.
Storey's 1972 play was part of the 'kitchen sink' movement that savaged post-war British optimism; this adaptation strips away theatrical artifice for something even bleaker.
GB
