Happy-Go-Lucky is about to come out on DVD in the U.K., but here in the States we're only about to get our first look at this unusual, uplifting comedy directed by Mike Leigh. I gave it four stars in my review, writing that the main character, Poppy (Sally Hawkins) is "the rare film character with whom we can just settle down with and follow around, knowing the adventure will be worth our time."
Now you can see Poppy for yourself, in these four clips from the movie. The seeming randomness of them gives you a good idea of how episodic the movie is-- we see Poppy go on dates, dance in clubs, take flamenco lessons, teach elementary school and take driving lessons, all of them giving us an idea of her character rather than tell a unified story. Two of the clips come from Poppy's driving lessons, which are the closest the movie comes to having a central story.
Poppy is a difficult character to write about, so I'm grateful you can see these clips and understand why she's much more than just your average, quirky, female movie character. Check them out, and look for Happy-Go-Lucky in theaters on October 17.
