Having missed this when it was running in the cinemas I was grateful for the chance to see it on BBC 4 last Sunday.
It’s a very simple story in many ways about Cyril, a boy in care, and his attempts to connect with his father. The film opens with Cyril on the phone to his father but continually getting the message that the number has been disconnected. His father has moved away but not told Cyril or the care authorities. What’s worse Cyril eventually discovers that his father has sold his precious bike.
When eventually Cyril finds his father working in a restaurant he is told that things have moved on, there has been a new beginning and Cyril should not attempt to contact his father again. Cyril then turns to a local hairdresser Samantha who is willing to care for him at the weekends and later takes him into foster care. This is done at considerable sacrifice since her boyfriend does not approve and later Cyril tests Samantha to the limit when he becomes involved in a robbery at a local newsagent. Her perseverance proves to be the turning point in Cyril’s life.
All through the story the bike is a constant. It is sold, damaged, stolen, used to lead Cyril astray but in the end it is a symbol of his resilience and his commitment to move on.
Compassion, redemption, hope. It’s all there. And great performances from all involved, especially Thomas Doret as Cyril.
