Watch Benny & Jolene

Benny & Jolene is a charming romantic comedy that tells the story of two musicians trying to make it big in the industry. The movie was directed by Jamie Adams and premiered in the UK in 2014. The film follows the titular characters, Benny (Craig Roberts) and Jolene (Charlotte Ritchie), as they navigate their way through the ups and downs of the music business. Benny is a quirky and talented singer-songwriter who has been playing gigs around town for years. Jolene is a young and ambitious folk singer who is just starting her career. When the two meet, they quickly realize that they have a connection and decide to team up to make music together.

The movie is shot in a quirky and indie style that is fitting for the offbeat characters and their creative pursuits. It has a fresh and authentic feel that captures the spirit of the DIY music scene. The chemistry between Roberts and Ritchie is palpable, and their performances are both natural and heartfelt.

One of the strengths of the movie is its focus on the music itself. The songs are written and performed by the actors, and they are all catchy and well-crafted. The filmmakers take care to showcase the process of making music, from the initial writing to the recording studio to the live performance. This adds a layer of realism to the story and makes the musical journey of the characters all the more engaging.

Benny & Jolene also delves into the personal lives of its characters. Benny is a bit of a loner and struggles with social anxiety, which has made it difficult for him to form meaningful relationships. Jolene is more outgoing and confident, but she has her own insecurities and doubts about the future of her career. As they grow closer and start to collaborate on music, they also begin to open up to one another and share their fears and hopes.

Dolly Wells plays Vanessa, Jolene's manager, who is both supportive and ruthless. She is determined to make her client a success, but she is not afraid to make tough decisions. Wells delivers a standout performance, infusing Vanessa with both humor and pathos.

The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Tom Rosenthal as Jolene's ex-boyfriend and Rosamund Hanson as Benny's love interest. Each character brings their own unique perspective to the story and adds depth to the world of the movie.

Overall, Benny & Jolene is a delightful and heartfelt comedy that celebrates the power of music and human connection. It is a charming indie gem that highlights the talents of its cast and director. Fans of romantic comedies and music movies will find a lot to enjoy in this heartfelt and authentic film.

Benny & Jolene is a 2016 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.0.