Watch AKA
- R
- 2002
- 2 hr 3 min
-
6.3 (1,232)
AKA is a British drama film from 2002 directed by Duncan Roy. It follows the story of Dean, a teenage boy who lives in a wealthy family and is struggling with his identity. He feels alienated from his mother and stepfather and seeks solace in his friendship with David, a young homosexual man. Together they embark on an escapade into the London underground, where they encounter a group of young people from various backgrounds.
As the story unfolds, we find out that Dean is not who he seems to be. His real name is Billy and he comes from the working class. He has been posing as Dean in order to be accepted into the upper-class society his mother belongs to. Billy's past catches up with him as he meets with his old friends, from whom he had originally run away. They reveal to him the truth about his past and the reasons why he had to change his identity.
The film deals with themes of social class, identity, and sexuality. It explores the consequences of Billy's lies and the impact they have on his relationships with his friends and family. It also portrays the struggle of young people in finding their place in the world and being true to themselves in a society that imposes certain expectations and norms.
Matthew Leitch gives a convincing performance as Billy/Dean, portraying the character's inner turmoil and vulnerability. Diana Quick plays the role of Billy's mother with grace and complexity, conveying her character's struggle to understand her son's behavior. George Asprey delivers a powerful performance as Billy's former friend Ray, who confronts Billy about his lies and challenges him to face his past.
The film is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that captures the London underground as a symbol of the hidden and marginalized aspects of society. The soundtrack, composed by Simon Fisher Turner, is also noteworthy, with haunting melodies that create an atmosphere of tension and unease.
Overall, AKA is an engaging and thought-provoking film that explores important themes with sensitivity and depth. It offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of human identity and the ways in which we navigate the social structures that surround us.