London Film Festival 2009

Renowned artist Sam Taylor-Wood has taken a big leap into the world of cinema, making her directorial debut with Nowhere Boy, a biopic of John Lennon’s early years growing up in Liverpool during the 50s.

The film’s been hotly anticipated – especially as Taylor-Wood is now dating lead actor Aaron Johnson, who, at 19 years old, is 23 years her junior – and received its world premiere at the festival’s Closing Night Gala.

Although the director may be a rookie the cast is strong, with emotional performances from Kristin Scott Thomas, Anne-Marie Duff and David Morrissey. And, while surrounded by experienced co-stars, Johnson competently carries the film as a cocky yet confused Lennon.

The story focuses on Lennon’s relationships with his estranged mother (Duff) and his Aunt Mimi (Scott Thomas), the latter of whom raised him since he was a small boy. As a teenager, Lennon reconnects with his wild and endearing mum, who introduces him to guitars and singing, providing escapism from the depressing, suffocating atmosphere at Mimi’s.

Those looking forward to some good old rock ‘n’ roll to tap their feet to won’t be disappointed; from Lennon’s first band, the Quarrymen, to Duff’s banjo playing, the sound manages to capture the era’s musical shift. Also of note is Thomas Sangster – who you’ll remember as Liam Neeson’s son in Love, Actually – whose calm and charming portrayal of Paul McCartney is the perfect counterbalance to Johnson’s brash Lennon.

It’s an intense story and it’s impossible not to invest in the rich characters; without a doubt, it’s an impressive debut for Taylor-Wood. Be warned though: it’s an emotional journey – you might want to come prepared to shed a tear or two along the way.

Tags: Aaron Johnson, Actually, Anne-Marie Duff, Closing Night Gala, David Morrissey, John Lennon, Kristin Scott Thomas, Liam Neeson, Love, Nowhere Boy, Paul McCartney, Sam Taylor-Wood, Thomas Sangster