London Film Festival – Review: Ali and Ava (2021)

Opening with the image of a character trying to aggressively dance away the pain of daily life, you know that ‘Ali and Ava’ will probably have a number of elements that resonate.

So often, despite having numerous people in our lives, there can still be times when extreme loneliness is a painful part of daily life.  ‘Ali and Ava’ from Director Clio Barnard takes a look at two such individuals whose lives intersect and an unlikely friendship blossoms.

Set in the streets of modern Bradford, the local community is a melting pot of cultures and different kinds of lives passing by each other.  Two of these ships in the night are Ali (Adeel Akhtar – Four Lions, The Big Sick) and Ava (Claire Rushbrook – Ammonite, Enola Holmes).  They have very different lives and live-in different parts of the city.  Ali is a jovial landlord, who is friends with many of his tenants, while at one point his family describe Ava as a Chav, and she is considered to be from the wrong part of the city.

It’s in these aspects that ‘Ali and Ava’ is intriguing for its examination of, and interesting portrayal of various parts of multicultural Britain.  Essentially, it’s an upending of a common setup, which works exceptionally well.  In this scenario, we see that both of their families are close knit and have their strengths, but there are also secrets and difficulties in both.  Neither have always been given their due either, especially as they’re both so selfless, and have had to endure hardship.

Ava, for instance, is much more than what some may perceive her to be and while she is only initially shown to be a classroom assistant, much more is revealed as the film goes on.  It’s here at the school that their paths cross, when Ali picks up Sophia, the daughter of one of his tenants.  It’s a brief encounter, but one that becomes extended by a heavy downpour.  The sometimes overenthusiastic Ali highlights his love of music, which then kick-starts their friendship.

At the core of ‘Ali and Ava’ is the recognition of kindred spirits, fueled by that shared love of music.  Multiple styles and genres weave their way through the soundscape of the film, flicking backward and forward between the two character’s favourite tracks.  This gives a nice juxtaposition, but also unites them through being able to express themselves, whether it be Ska, Punk, or Folk.

What really makes this work though is a cast that gels on an emotional level.  This is especially true of Akhtar and Rushbrook, but also extends to the rest of the cast. Ellora Torchia for instance, as Runa, gives a performance that is subtle, yet suitably tortured at times.  These connections make the whole film sing, and show that the time spent workshopping them,  as noted in the credits, was worthwhile.

It must also be mentioned that another key character is Bradford itself.  From the beauty of the surrounding countryside to the bleak, barren industrial aspects, it imbues the film with its richness and contradictions.  The sight of a horse and cart carrying scrap metal mixes with regular urban experiences, giving it an odd, yet familiar appeal. Almost a throwback to simpler times.

What all this adds up to is a remarkably engaging film with an emotional punch and honesty that will pull you in.  Like your favourite tunes, this one will stay in your mind for some time.

‘Ali and Ava’ is showing as part of the London Film Festival at the Royal Festival Hall (13th and 14th October).