Although entitled ‘Sparkle’ the British-made film lacks the usual glitz and glamour of a well-publicised Hollywood rom-com. There is No Julia Roberts or Richard Gere in sight. No power ballad soundtrack. And certainly no exotic setting.

However, the film does provide more than just a simple plot, with the movie a treat for any fan of cinematography. Seemingly taking influence from renowned British director Ken Loach in their style, Tom Hunsinger and Neil Hunter have created a light-hearted and low effort comedy.

Although the ‘boy meets girl’ story has been told a million times, it is enhanced here by the intertwining relationships of the characters in the plot, and the humour conveyed throughout, as the audience watches on at Sam Sparkes attempt to make it in the competitive London PR world. After being introduced to a successful PR boss, Sheila, Sam senses opportunity and charms himself a job as her PA... and her lover. However, when he then proceeds to fall in love with Kate, a more sensible match for him, he begins to learn more about life and love. After some unexpected twists, Sam must choose between his career and the woman of his dreams.

The lead characters Sam Sparkes and Kate are played well by newcomers Shaun Evans and Amanda Ryan, even if the character of Sam remains largely unlikeable, and Kate is shown to be surprisingly weak for someone who is meant to be an impassioned activist.

Stockard Channing puts in a superb performance as Sam’s PR boss, Sheila, showing the emotional and vulnerable side to a woman hiding behind a strong persona.

Other well known faces in Bob Hoskins and Anthony Head appear and are both responsible for bringing humour to the affair, the first as a love interest for main character Sam Sparks’ mum, and the latter as Kate’s gay uncle.

Strangely, throughout the film it is hard to tell what decade the story is set, until mobile phones and computers are caught on camera, with the set having a very old fashioned feel to it.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a big Hollywood rom-com with a stellar soundtrack, then this is most certainly not it. However, if you want a pleasant alternative to the exhausted ‘boy meets girl’ storyline then give this a go.

Without a doubt the film is more suited to the TV than the big screen, which is probably why it had a very limited release when it came out two years ago, but is now available on DVD.

Rating: 3/5
 
‘Sparkle’ is to be released on DVD on 16th August 2010. Certificate: 15. RRP: £9.99. Running Time: 104 minutes. DVD Extras: Exclusive interview with directors Tom Hunsinger and Neil Hunter, plus the ‘Making of’ with behind the scenes footage.