Get Gone

Released 21st January 2021, Get Gone follows Aaron Walker as he returns to his drug-run neighbourhood in the wake of his brother’s death. Despite seeming like another English crime drama at first glance, this film actually provides some much needed freshness to the genre. One particular thing which you notice about the film is that there is some particularly experimental camerawork through the film and the way its shot. Whilst it can sometimes be a bit jarring, it creates a unique viewing experience. Also, being a small scale film, its soundtrack does its purpose but isn’t much more memorable than that.

The cast do a superb job throughout; notable standouts being Alex Guilford, Natalie Martins and Jorden Myrie. Alex Guilford provides a nuanced performance of Aaron Walker; he is able to convey the jaded sense of compassion and determination you would believe from an ex-drug dealer. Natalie Martins also hits every character beat (of which there are quite a few) as Aaron’s partner Danielle Stevens. However, the side character of Martin Johnson, performed by Jorden Myrie, is one that really stood out to me. Martin is a beleaguered police constable who operates in Aaron’s neighbourhood despite the disdain from everyone; bar Aaron. As the story develops we see Aaron showing Martin an appreciation for what he’s doing. Jorden is able to sufficiently present the confidence gained from having people believe in you.

And that feels like the heart of the film; no matter your circumstance, any act of kindness will be remembered. We see Aaron interact with numerous characters throughout the story and, more often than not, he manages to leave a good impression on them. His interactions pay off as the story reaches its end; an ending with a surprising yet logical twist. Overall, what had the makings of being just another gang film with some early plot points ended up providing enough modulation with its characters to step above its peers in the genre.