Happy-Go-Lucky will entertain on a dull day

Perennially perky primary school teacher Poppy (Sally Hawkins) is a free spirit who refuses to let life get her down, rising above the misery and cynicism of London and its weary inhabitants in 'Happy-Go-Lucky' (Cert 15, 115 mins, Momentum Pictures Home Entertainment, €25.52).

She meets her match in misanthropic driving instructor Scott (Eddie Marsan), whose quick temper and boundless pessimism are in stark contrast to her cheery disposition. Scott voices his disdain for his pupil’s carefree attitude (“You can make jokes driving, Poppy, but you will crash and you will die!”) but she refuses to be worn down by his constant sniping.

Their relationship takes an unexpected detour when Poppy begins dating a handsome social worker (Samuel R oukin), and Scott grows increasingly jealous of the new man in his student’s life. 'Happy-Go-Lucky' is a beautifully observed slice of London life. It is Mike Leigh’s most relentlessly upbeat and optimistic film for years, but doesn’t lose any of the meticulous detail or rich characterisation we have come to expect from this remarkable writer-director. !!!

DVD Extras: “Behind The Wheel” making of featurette, Mike Leigh Q&A, “Mike Leigh’s Characters” featurette.

Comedy/Drama/Romance

****