Watch The Drowning of Arthur Braxton

The Drowning of Arthur Braxton is a 2021 coming-of-age drama film based on a novel of the same name by Caroline Smailes. It stars James Tarpey as Arthur Braxton, a 17-year-old teenager who feels lost and misunderstood in his life. He spends most of his time hiding in the school's swimming pool, where he feels safe from the outside world. However, one day, he witnesses something extraordinary that changes his life forever.

The film takes place in the fictional town of Mythordale, a dreary place with a rundown shopping center and a stagnant pool. Arthur lives with his mother, who is distant and critical, and his younger sister, who is obsessed with fairy tales. Arthur doesn't know what he wants to do with his life, and his future scares him. He spends his time swimming in the school pool, which is his only refuge from the world. However, the pool is closing, which means Arthur's sanctuary will be gone forever.

One day, while swimming in the pool, Arthur sees something strange at the bottom of the pool. He investigates and discovers a merman, played by Johnny Vegas. The merman is trapped in the pool and can't escape. Arthur is initially afraid, but he soon forms a connection with the merman. They communicate without words, and Arthur realizes that the merman understands him better than anyone else ever has.

The film's central theme is the isolation that teenagers often feel and the need to connect with someone else. Arthur is different from the other teenagers in his school, and he doesn't fit in. He is a loner who is lost and searching for meaning in his life. The merman represents someone who accepts Arthur for who he is and doesn't judge him. Their connection is innocent and pure, and it brings Arthur a sense of comfort and belonging that he has never experienced before.

The Drowning of Arthur Braxton is an emotional film that deals with complex issues of identity, belonging and the need for acceptance. It is a deliriously romantic fairytale with an unusual premise. It is also a coming-of-age story that will resonate with many teenagers who feel lost and misunderstood.

James Tarpey delivers an engaging performance as Arthur Braxton, capturing the teenager's vulnerability and confusion. He portrays Arthur with a delicate balance of fragility and strength, making him a relatable character. Johnny Vegas also shines as the merman, creating a character who is both childlike and wise. Rebecca Hanssen is excellent as Sienna, a classmate who befriends Arthur and helps him to understand himself better.

Overall, the film's themes are as deep as the pool at the centre of Arthur's world, filled with the pain of growing up and the joys that come from human connections. It is a tender and unique film that will leave a lasting impression on its viewers. It highlights the importance of understanding and accepting others who are different from us. The film resonates with audiences across all ages and is one that will stay with those who watch it.

The Drowning of Arthur Braxton is a 2022 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.