Movie: Gypo

Gypo is a film that breaks all conventions of film making - it was the first British film shot in Dogme95, there was no script, and it tackles major social issues.

Dogme 95, for those of you (like me) who know nothing about film except how to watch, is a throwback to old style movie making. Using Dogme film means that there is no chance to add voice overs or do special effects - it has the feel of a documentary: gritty and real.

Helen (played by Pauline McLynn who is best known for her comedic genius) is an unhappy wife and mother of three. Her youngest daughter, still living at home, now has a baby. Helen feels like she takes care of everyone and does nothing for herself. When her daughter brings home a classmate, Tasha, she sees the chance to talk to someone who has a different and fresh perspective on life.

Paul, Helen's husband, is also stuck in a rut. His marriage is not working. He feels his only role is bring money home. He is not the most sympathetic character even when the story is being told from his point of view.

Tasha (Chloe Sirene) and her mother (played by the amazing Rula Lenska) are Romany Czech and have escaped to England to get away from an abusive father/husband. They are waiting on passports that will free them from having to worry about being found. Tasha has done everything she can to help keep food on the table for her mother. Without working papers she was left little option as to a career choice. When she meets Helen, her outlook on life changes.

Gypo is the story of how one person can open the eyes of some and bring out the prejudice in others. Though a hard film to summarize, it is a thought provoking look at prejudice, refugees and bigotry. It is told in three overlapping parts from the points of view of Helen, Paul and Tasha.

Gypo
Pauline McLynn.
Chloe Sirene.
Rula Lenska.