Ken Loach's latest film is a lot funnier and lighter than some of his previous films, such as Ladybird, Ladybird or Land and Freedom, but he still manages to include his usual strain of dark social realism. Loach has never been what you might call a 'Hollywood-style' director. His plots, his characters and his techniques are determinedly British and determinedly rough and realistic. He is never one to pull punches or to try to soften the edges of a story. He sees life in a realistic, often harsh, but always interesting way. In his latest effort the plot is as follows: unemployed former alcoholic Joe and community health worker Sarah, attempt romance in one of the toughest of Glasgow's very tough neighbourhoods. On the surface a straight-forward and simple story, but there is nothing simplistic about Loach. While some moments are truly funny, (watch for the football), Loach also infuses the story with the tragic fatalistic elements he is so noted for. Peter Mullan (who won the Best Actor Award at Cannes) as Joe creates a wonderful character - and a great guy. My Name is Joe is a very truthful, dramatic and often hilarious film.

Bedrooms and Hallways is the second film by director Rose Troche, of Go Fish fame. Described in "More" as "the horniest Brit-pack film ever," (which is a pretty solid recommendation) this film is a bright happy little romp through various combinations of friendship, love and sex. Starring Kevin McKidd (that guy from Trainspotting) as the confused and lovelorn Leo, Hugo Weaving as Jeremy a sleazy real estate broker, (he should really talk to his agent about typecasting!), Jennifer Ehle (yes, the chick who played Lizzie Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice') as Sally, the gorgeous James Purefoy as Brendan (whose previous claim to fame was an appearance in 'Mansfield Park' - what is it with all this Jane Austen?! Are there no other acting jobs in England?) , Simon Callow (Four Weddings and a Funeral) and Tom Hollander (The Very Thought of You) as witty and wise Darren. Worth seeing just to check out the houses these people have (I myself have always wanted a Tibet Room!), Bedrooms is a fun, lighthearted look at sexuality and relationships, New Age Mens Groups, and the horrors of surprise birthday parties.