This was the film that should have really propelled Steven Mackintosh into the big time (although his earlier work on TV in The Buddha of Suburbia should have done so too). In 'House of America', as Kerouac-obsessed Sid, he is absolutely superb.
The rest of the film is hit and miss, although I did like it. Anything with Siân Phillips is usually worth watching and as the on-the-edge Mam doesn't disappoint. As the other kids in the family Matthew Rhys impresses as Boyo, while Lisa Palfrey tackles a difficult role as Gwenny, trapped in her own fantasies.
Excellent 1990s soundtrack too which adds to the mood. It is a downbeat and powerful film which just stops short of where it could go, but overall a good effort.
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