Benjamin - Simon Amstell's Lovable Comedy

Photo: Benjamin, Open Palm Films

Mixed with humour, warmth and charm, Simon Amstell writes the reflective and lovable story of film-maker Benjamin.

Colin Morgan plays protagonist, Benjamin. It is clear from the start that Benjamin struggles to love others as he finds it complicated to love and appreciate his own self – worth. This burdensome mindset proves to be the issue that is to be overcome in this movie in order for a happy ending. By making this self-deprecation the enemy, the ending can only be loved and celebrated more.

With reflection of comedian Simon Amstell’s previous stand-up, Benjamin makes for the perfect depiction of his own story and identity. It is without a doubt that the clever one-liners and witty exchanges are necessary to uplift this film, without it, the script would only be full of shades of blue and heavy, emotional scenes.

Colin Morgan brings a sense of awareness to the character of Benjamin, as an audience it is as though we can see the emotional uncertainty he is processing in his mind. As a way to balance out this character, full of worry and tension, Noah is introduced. Portrayed by French actor Phénix Brossard, Noah is a young musician that opens Benjamin’s mind to the warmth love can bring. We see this relationship begin, end, and start again – although it is a journey, it is beautiful to watch as we see Benjamin become more comfortable within himself and feel as though he can put more trust in others.

Alongside Morgan and Brossard, Jack Rowan, Joel Fry, Jessica Raine, and even a surprise cameo from Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, are just a few others to complete this cast. They play hilarious supporting roles which add light and laughter to the movie, whilst still bringing their own individual stories to the line.

The score for this movie is beautiful. Combined with Noah’s performances during the film and violin and piano duets, a sense of innocence is reflected. The music, simultaneously played with the complexity but tranquillity of Benjamin’s character, makes the scenes feel layered and diverse. Written by the British musician James Righton and Simon Amstell himself, the lyrics in Noah’s song, ‘I Still Don’t Know’, forms a verbal flashback of the film and his relationship with Benjamin. Lyrics like “are you longing to be scared forever” and “you know it’s safe to let someone hold you”, give us an insight into Noah’s mind during the relationship; it is as though Benjamin’s perspective is shown through the movie itself, whilst Noah’s is shown through the music, mirroring their own interests in the film.

The differing characters in this film delicately present the emotional difficulty faced when in a relationship. LGBTQ+ relationships are presented particularly well in this movie not only between Benjamin and Noah, but between Benjamin and actor Harry, played by Jack Rowan. We see Harry’s character experiment with a side of his sexuality he is unsure about, although, the way he goes about this isn’t particularly enjoyable for Benjamin – this complexity is what makes this somewhat levelled film immersive and charming.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpIKHz9lqts

For an easy-watch that will make you feel warm and cosy, Benjamin is the perfect film. It was evidently crafted by Simon Amstell to consist of all the elements that we love as an audience: complex characters, humour, drama and romance. In addition to that, Colin Morgan’s portrayal of Benjamin is outstanding and offers an important feeling of recognition for anyone who may feel as though they can relate to the character.

Watch Benjamin on Prime Video now: Watch Benjamin | Prime Video (amazon.co.uk)