Scrapper

Published 20/08/2023

Scrapper is compiled of a charming, witty and touching script, with a unique and personal stylistic direction by Charlotte Regan, which is performed through an impressive debut performance by Lola Campbell as Georgie.

Regan took the opposite direction most would take to portray a story such as this and it’s refreshing and hopeful to watch. She shies away from the overdone under saturated, gloom and slow-paced film for an optimistic and joyful take of a child growing up in a working-class family with a less than ideal situation regarding their parents.

The Upbeat and very humours dialogue paired with the heart string pulling journey both father (Jason played by Harris Dickinson) and daughter (Campbell) go on refrains from being sappy and stays true to it’s core through the 82 minute run.

Despite the shorter run time, immediately Campbell greets us with a clearly constructed and real character of Georgie. Regan has gave Campbell her credit for creating the personality of Georgie entirely herself, with having very little guidance from Regan or other crew members or even going as far to disregard their advice when they did give it at times. It was clearly for the better as the final performance we see in the film is so uniquely Georgie. The chemistry between Campbell and Dickinson is electric coming out the screen. There is a clear building of familiarity and trust between them throughout the film that adds to the intimate and genuine nature of the film.

I believe Scrapper is going to be a staple of British independent cinema and of the 2023 release slate this year. It is a prime example that shows the importance of independent cinema and giving all filmmakers and actors an opportunity for their voices and stories to be heard.

Scrapper, dir. Charlotte Regan

Release: 25th August 2023

Lara Edwards