Watch Diary of a Bad Lad

Diary of a Bad Lad is a gritty, independent British film that explores the complexities of youth and the struggles of growing up. Released in 2010, the movie is the debut feature of writer-director-producer Simon Phillips and stars Joe O'Byrne in the lead role of Chris Dean, a troubled young man at odds with both himself and the world around him.

The film is presented in a mockumentary style, with a mix of talking head interviews and fly-on-the-wall footage that gives the impression of a documentary crew following Chris and his group of friends on their tumultuous journey. Chris is a complex figure; on one hand, he is a charismatic and intelligent young man with a gift for storytelling, but on the other hand, he is filled with anger and resentment towards authority figures and the world at large.

The movie begins with Chris being released from prison, recounting his experiences in jail and his previous run-ins with the law. From there, we follow him as he tries to rebuild his life, reconciling with his estranged father and attempting to make a fresh start. However, Chris's history of violence and aggression soon catches up with him as he struggles to resist the temptation to fall back into his old ways.

The film's themes of rebellion, identity, and class struggle are all explored through Chris's experiences and the people he encounters along the way. One of his closest friends is a young woman named Claire (Donna Henry), who is also struggling to find her place in the world. Like Chris, she comes from a working-class background and has to deal with the negative stereotypes and prejudices that come with it. Their friendship is a complex one, with both of them using each other as emotional crutches, but also pushing each other to be better.

Another key figure in Chris's life is his mentor, a former DJ named Dezzie (Paul Birtwistle), who serves as a father figure and source of guidance for him. Dezzie provides Chris with a sense of purpose and belonging, showing him how to channel his anger into music and giving him a chance to perform at his club. However, Dezzie also has his own demons to deal with and is not always a positive influence on his protégé.

At its core, Diary of a Bad Lad is a raw and honest depiction of the struggles of young people trying to find their place in the world. The film is shot with a documentary-style realism that gives it a gritty and authentic feel, and the performances are all strong and believable. Joe O'Byrne is particularly impressive in the lead role, bringing both charm and intensity to his portrayal of Chris.

The movie is not without its flaws; some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, and there are moments when the mockumentary format feels forced. However, these issues are minor in comparison to the film's strengths. Diary of a Bad Lad is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of the struggles of youth, and a promising debut from a talented new filmmaker.