Watch Pure

Pure is a 2002 drama film directed by Gillies MacKinnon that tells the story of a young boy, Paul (Harry Eden), struggling to reconcile his mother's heroin addiction with his life. The film takes place in East London and mainly follows the relationship between Paul and his mother, Mel (Molly Parker), while showcasing the gritty reality of life in a run-down neighborhood.

From the beginning, we see how Paul tends to Mel's addiction, dutifully boiling up her heroin and preparing her needles. Despite the difficult and dangerous circumstances, he loves his mother deeply and knows no other way of life. However, the arrival of a new social worker, Louise (Keira Knightley), who quickly forms a bond with Paul, sets off a chain of events that forces him to confront the reality of his situation.

Louise provides a new perspective on the world of Mel and Paul, offering a glimpse of hope and possibility. She encourages Paul to try new things and explore the world around him. He discovers a love for fly-fishing, which becomes a refuge for him as his home life becomes more and more tumultuous.

Meanwhile, Mel faces mounting pressure as a local drug dealer, Lenny (David Wenham), demands she pay back money that she owes him. Paul is forced into increasingly difficult situations as he tries to help his mother, often at great personal risk. The film never shies away from the harsh realities of life in East London and the difficulties faced by those struggling with addiction and poverty.

Throughout the film, we see how addiction can infect and destroy relationships. Mel neglects her son in favor of her heroin addiction, while Lenny exploits her vulnerability for his gain. Paul's relationship with Louise becomes increasingly conflicted as he struggles to choose between his love for his mother and his desire for a better life.

The performances in Pure are astounding, particularly by Harry Eden as Paul. He deftly captures the vulnerability and determination of a child struggling to survive in an environment of chaos and despair. Molly Parker as Mel does an excellent job of showing the desperation and shame of someone caught in the grips of addiction. Keira Knightley as Louise is charming and kind-hearted, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the film's bleakness.

Pure manages to tell a powerful story about addiction and poverty without feeling preachy or didactic. Rather, it offers an honest look at life for those trapped in these cycles of despair. The film is beautifully shot and tightly edited, with a haunting score that adds to the overall sense of unease.

Overall, Pure is a thought-provoking and moving film that manages to portray a harsh reality without sacrificing humanity or empathy. The performances are top-notch, and the story is both heartbreaking and hopeful. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of addiction and the human experience.