Slipping Down Life: Norris’ Debut Steeps Notable Performances in Melodrama

Famed theater director Rufus Norris makes his cinematic directorial debut with an adaptation of Daniel Clay’s novel, Broken, which features a highly enjoyable lead performance from newcomer Eloise Laurence. A first rating supporting cast is also responsible for some quietly observed moments, though none of the performers are able to mask the increasing hysterical elements of the film’s overly dramatic narrative, which reachs fever pitch by the final frames, reducing the intricate power of its first half. Despite these noticeable shortcomings, Norris’ film isn’t without notable merit, and manages to sustain a certain level of interest.

In the suburbs of North London, Skunk (Eloise Laurence) a spunky pre-adolescent resides in a cozy cul-de-sac with her solicitor father Archie (Tim Roth) and older brother, Jed (Bill Milner). Mom flew the coop some time ago, so a live-in nanny,...