A fresh start carrying a high price
Ricky, Abbie and their two children live in Newcastle. They support one another and want greater security. An opportunity as a self-employed delivery driver seems to offer Ricky a way forward. The family sells Abbie’s car to help fund his van. But the price of this independence proves considerably higher than they had expected.
Believable people rather than simple arguments
Ken Loach turns this situation into a compelling family drama. The rough, convincing performances give the film its realism. I see people fighting for one another while still encountering limits. Their support is real, but love alone cannot remove the economic pressure. That combination of solidarity and helplessness moved me deeply.
An unmistakable political perspective
The film shows how working conditions shape an entire family’s life. It also calls attention to people left with several insecure jobs and barely enough income. Its perspective is distinctly pessimistic. I understand that tone, although its broader view of the economic system does not always feel entirely balanced to me.
Verdict
Sorry We Missed You is a moving, strongly performed drama about how far people will go for their family and how easily they can still be defeated. Its politics are clear, but the characters remain its heart for me. That is why its criticism of working conditions hits so hard. Highly recommended. My rating is 8 out of 10.
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