The town has a reputation as being, aesthetically speaking, a bit pish.
It begins, as do so many coming of age movies, with some horny teenage boys.
WhereGregorys Girlsucceeds is that, yes, they come across as pervy, but also idiots.
Well meaning idiots, but at the age where thats basically what boys are.
It doesnt come across as judgemental, but accurate.
If anything its made with great warmth and empathy, an understanding of the idiocy.
Gregory is the weird kid, more of an aspiring romantic than anything else.
This is now an established cinematic cliche, but this is one of the best instances of it.
Sinclairs performance of Forsyths dialogue manages to make Gregory gallus, petulant and endearing.
He does at least manage to talk to them about better subjects than making veal.
While the situation is familiar, the low key, deadpan sensibilities of the film are uniquely Bill Forsyths.
Its a really funny film, but not through big set pieces or constant quips.
Its so restrained and low key that it makesThe Mighty Booshsound like Lee Mack.
A reason this film has persisted in public consciousness for 35 years is that it changes with age.
Gregorys Girlhas a wide appeal, and will keep on being handed down to younger audiences.
A lo fi, wet hot North Lanarkshire summer preserved for everyone.
