It is not unusual for music video directors to try their hands on feature films — the most recent examples include Michel Gondry and Marc Webb. Richard Ayoade graduated from law at Cambridge University before signing with Warp Films (under music label Warp), and went on to direct music video for Arctic Monkeys, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Kasabian. Ayoade directed concept feature-length film Arctic Monkeys at the Apollo for Arctic Monkeys in 2008. Submarine is his first feature length drama, adopted from same title novel. It has already been shown at London Film Festival 2010 and Berlin International Film Festival 2011.

Oliver (Craig Roberts), the main character, is an autistic fifteen-year-old boy. He sees himself as the centre of the universe. Oliver suspected his mother is having an affair with a neighbour; while his parents are getting a divorce; he bumped into his slightly paranoid ex-lover Jordana (Yasmin Paige). The sparkle is spectacular yet short-lived. This romance eventually turned into a memory that is both mersmerising and trivial. Through the director’s unique perspective, mumbling lines and refreshing rhythm, the film is a note on youth — told through a dark British sense of humour.

The editing is also a highlight, completed by Nick Fenton (previous work includes Heima, a documentary of Icelandic band Sigur Ros in concert) and Chris Dickens (Academy award winning film editor for Slum Dog Millionaire). Alex Turner, lead singer of Arctic Monkeys, created six songs for the film’s original sound track. The OST EP is now released.

Text: Vincent Lau | Translation: dilettante
Photo Courtesy: Golden Scene Co. Ltd.
Update: 1 Jun 2011

Director: Richard Ayoade
Cast: Craig Roberts、Yasmin Paige、Sally Hawkins、Noah Taylor
Release Date: 2 Jun 2011

SUBMARINE
warp.net/films/submarine