By Kit-Kat

We all know that the standard plot line of the underdog has been used thousands of times. Yet, there is something about that plot line, that when done correctly - will allow us to forgive the predictability of it all and actually enjoy the movie. On a Clear Day is an exceptional movie that accomplishes just that.

After decades of laboring as a Glasgow shipbuilder, Frank Redmond, a no-nonsense 55-year-old working-class man, suddenly finds himself laid off. For the first time in his life, he is without a job or a sense of direction, and he's too proud to ask for guidance. His best mates - rascally Danny, timid Norman and cynical Eddie - are there for him, but Frank still feels desperately alone. An offhand remark from Danny inspires Frank to challenge himself. Already contemplating the state of his relationships with loving wife Joan and all-but-estranged son Rob, Frank is determined to shore up his own self-confidence. He will attempt the near impossible - swimming the English Channel. As Frank plunges headlong into his new daily life, his astonished friends are swept along with him. Prodded by stalwart fish-and-chips shop owner Chan, the men support Frank, train him - and keep their goal secret from his wife and son. Frank is unable to confide in those closest to him, but as the big day and moment of truth draw near, there is a sea change. Frank's family confronts him, and he realizes that he must repair his strained family ties. As Frank and those closest to him discover - or re-discover - reserves of love and compassion, he realizes that he is also swimming from one part of his life to another.

Peter Mullen is an outstanding actor and I cannot imagine anyone else cast as Frank Redmond would've done such a wonderful job. Indeed, the casting in this movie is one of the charms; all of the actors/actresses are phenomenal in their roles and hilarious to boot. Jamie Sives packs an emotional punch as Fran's estranged son. Only at the end do you realize the full scope of things (and no, I'm not going to give the details away) and it was brilliantly done. I just loved Brenda Blethyn as Frank's Wife - Joan. She is on the top list for me and I've always enjoyed the depth of character she puts into her roles. Hobbit lovers can rejoice at Billy Boyd in this film - he was superb, hilarious and definitely a highlight to watch through the film. I tend to forget his great acting skills (being a hobbit fan) and it was nice to be reminded that there is much more to Billy Boyd than one would imagine. The gang of friends that surround Frank during is quest are just perfect with their imperfections and it was predictable yet enjoying to see each come into their own, resolving their own problems along the way.

A serious shocker is there are no special features on this DVD. I mean, c'mon now - DVD bonus features are what we live for! Since this was an independent film I didn't expect to have a chock full of features bliss however, I did expect something... a gag reel, some deleted scenes etc... Not a thing. I bet there was enough for a hilarious gag reel considering the cast so that was a low blow. After sitting staring at that cold hard fact I could forgive the DVD for being so cruel to me as I reflected on the superb movie it contained.

This is a perfect movie to watch and more so with family. No bang 'em up special effects, no mind twisting plots - just a damn good movie with heart which seems to be something we forget about with all the big budgets out there.