There’s not enough films like this.  “Slice-of-life” is a difficult genre to pull off, as conventional narrative requires an antagonist, rising action and all that mess to compel viewers to continue watching.  Mike Leigh, best known for some pretty heavy dramas (Vera Drake, Naked, Secrets & Lies) explores this genre with a nimble grace that Hollywood wouldn’t allow (but the UK does - thank god for foreign film!).

Happy-Go-Lucky showcases three things: humanity, relationships and great acting.  It brings a viewer through a few weeks in the life of Poppy, a confident and goofy 30 year-old woman who handles life’s travails with a smile and a positive outlook.  There is no antagonist.  The stakes are not life and death.  Here is simply a woman, coping.

And wow, what a woman she is - fierce and generous, playful and a great friend.  Sally Hawkins brings her to life with the brute force of a veteran actress, surely slingshotting her career from smaller roles to lead ones.  The Golden Globes recognized this (she’s nominated for Best Actress in a musical or comedy), but it’s unlikely that the Academy will (they only recognize dramatic depictions, with special emphasis on afflicted or real-life depictions).  Her supporting cast - Alexis Zegerman & Kate O’Flynn - do just as well, bringing the women they inhabit to life with ease and distinct voice.

Leigh’s direction, as usual, is tight and unobtrusive - so much so that one almost forgets she’s watching a film, and mistakes this series of events for real life.

Don’t miss this one.  The feel-good movie of the year.