Watch Looks and Smiles

Looks and Smiles is a 1981 British drama film directed by Ken Loach, based on the novel by Barry Hines. The film captures the economic and social conditions of the early Thatcher era in Great Britain. The story follows Mick, a young man who has just finished school and is looking for a job in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. He is a bright and hardworking lad but struggles to find work due to the tough economic conditions in the area. He lives in a council estate with his family and spends his free time hanging out with his friends at the local pub or attending political demonstrations.

Mick becomes involved with Karen, a young woman who is also struggling to make ends meet. The couple dreams of a better future, but their hopes and aspirations seem out of reach in a world ruled by unemployment and inequality. They begin to feel frustrated and angry, and their relationship begins to suffer.

Meanwhile, Mick's friend Alan joins the military in hopes of finding a way out of his current situation. However, he soon realizes that the army is not the solution to his problems and decides to return home. His experience in the military leaves him disillusioned and traumatized.

In the film, director Loach draws attention to the consequences of Thatcher-era policies, such as the dismantling of industrial economies and the rise of unemployment. He also emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity in the face of adversity.

The film's power lies in its realism and its portrayal of ordinary people struggling to make a living in difficult circumstances. The characters are complex and multidimensional, and their struggles are relatable and moving. The performances by the cast, especially Graham Green as Mick, are excellent and give the film an authentic feel.

Overall, Looks and Smiles is a powerful and poignant film that offers a glimpse into the economic and social realities of Britain in the early 1980s. It is a testament to the resilience of working-class people in the face of adversity and a reminder of the importance of social justice and equality.

Looks and Smiles is a 1981 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.