Writer-director Fridtjof Ryder makes an impressive debut with Inland, which had its world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival this evening.
The German-English filmmaker – who also produces – has delivered an atmospheric meditation on family, loss, nature and the environment, with terrific turns from Mark Rylance and newcomer Rory Alexander.
In the credits, the latter’s character is known as The Man, and the contemporary story pays tribute to the ancient Green Man legend.
Set in Gloucester, UK, on the outskirts of the Forest of Dean, it sees him returning home after time in a facility. His mother has gone missing, and his father figure, mechanic Dunleavy (Rylance), welcomes him back with a gentle jokey greeting: “You Silly Billy.” It’s a telling phrase that sets the tone of an affectionate relationship and a character who falls back on humor when the conversation is in danger of getting serious.
Read more on deadline.com