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High Hopes

1988 · Movie · PG · 108 min · ★ 7.1 · 88% critics

ComedyDrama

A working-class couple wrestles with big life choices while feeling squeezed by newcomers who are changing their neighborhood and driving up costs. As family tensions rise around an elderly parent’s milestone birthday, everyday pressures test their relationship and sense of home.

IMDb

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Details
Years
1988
Release date
1989-01-13
Language
English
Rated
PG
Runtime
108 min
Critic score
88/100
TMDB rating
7.1/10 (99 votes)
About

If you enjoy grounded, socially aware dramas about everyday pressures and family strain, this may click, especially if you liked Another Year or Riff-Raff; Not for you if you want fast action or escapist stories.

Pros: grounded relationship drama; sharp social observations; relatable family tensions | Cons: low-key pacing; uncomfortable conflicts; limited plot surprises

Themes

  • london, england
  • working class
  • class differences
  • family
  • elderly lady

Awards & recognition

  • European Film Award — Best Composer · 1989
  • European Film Award — Best Actress · 1989
  • European Film Award — Best Supporting Performance · 1989
  • European Film Award — Best Composer · 1989 · nominated
  • European Film Award — Best Film · 1989 · nominated
Show all 7 awards →
  • European Film Award — Best Actress · 1989 · nominated
  • European Film Award — Best Supporting Performance · 1989 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Mike Leigh