I, Daniel Blake

Having suffered a heart-attack at age 59, widowed Daniel Blake (David Johns) sets his sights on fighting the system in order to receive Employment and Support Allowance. Trouble is, the bureaucracy of the English Government is unrelenting just the same, winning his case will take everything he’s got; meanwhile, Daniel’s generosity knows no bounds as he strains to help single mother of one, Katie (Hayley Squires). Is there no mercy for the common man? Directed by Ken Loach and Written by Paul Laverty, this eloquent heartbreak captures the essence of the classic struggles of man against man, man against the universe, and man against himself, all working on various elements of ethos, logos, and pathos. That is to say, this well thought out and crafted film reaches to surprising deep places on it’s streamlined budget and efficient storytelling. Most certainly not an uplifting film by any means, however, if you’re looking for strength in acting and bang for buck, look no further, I, Daniel Blake will move you. Rated R.