British-Iranian sixth form student Ziba Soof (Deba Hekmat) seems to have a great future ahead of her, having won a place at University College London to study astrophysics. She plans to celebrate results day with her friends Shea (Solly McLeod), Merf (Jay Lycurgo) and Tara (Lydia Fleming) and has devised a detailed itinerary.
However, she has told none of them of her recent cancer diagnosis that is life threatening and requires immediate treatment. Sasha Nathwani’s film, co-written by Helen Simmons, takes place over the course of about 24 hours as the friends, along with Malcolm (Denzel Baidoo), move around London, completing the tasks on Ziba’s list.
There is a natural chemistry to the group. I could really believe they were mates and would happily have watched a story about their day without Ziba’s illness or a near tragic event that happens towards the end. But, that did not stop my enjoyment of a film that reminded me in tone, believability and the capturing of modern day London as 2023’s Rye Lane.
Hekmat gives a star making performance amongst a terrific ensemble cast in which Fleming also shines. This is a fresh and vibrant feature length debut from Nathwani that marks her out as one of our most promising film makers.
Rating: 8 out of 10