Ali (Adeel Akhtar) is a friendly British Pakistani working-class landlord and music enthusiast, who is trying to keep the fact that he has become estranged from his wife secret from the rest of his family. When Ali meets Ava (Claire Rushbrook), an Irish-born teacher and single mother of five, the two hit it off immediately. Their friendship quickly develops into a romance that takes them both by surprise.

Featuring heartfelt, authentic performances from leads Akhtar and Rushbrook, as well as an eclectic soundtrack, this Bradford-set film from acclaimed UK writer-director Clio Barnard (The Selfish Giant) is a warm, charming exploration of a midlife love affair.

Festivals:

Quinzaine / Directors’ Fortnight, Cannes Film Festival 2021

Karlovy Vary international Film Festival 2021

Toronto International Film Festival 2021

BFI London Film Festival 2021

Cork International Film Festival 2021

International Film Festival Rotterdam 2022

Awards:

Winner - Best Actor, British Independent Film Awards 2021

Quotes:

“★ ★ ★ ★ … an understated triumph … Barnard’s film is an essay in acceptance and love.”

- Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian, Cannes Film Festival 2021

“Clio Barnard returns with a social realist riff on the classic romcom, and it’s one of her best films to date.” - David Jenkins, Little White Lies, Cannes Film Festival 2021

Nominee - Leading Actor, BAFTAs 2022

Nominee - Outstanding British Film, BAFTAs 2022