It Was an Accident (2000)

It Was an Accident Poster

An ex-con gets caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Overview
"It Was an Accident" is a British comedy-drama film released in the year 2000, directed by Metin Hüseyin. The film is based upon a book of the very same name by author Jeremy Cameron, supplying a narrative fixated the misadventures of a male attempting to stay away from problem. Regardless of its comedic components, the movie likewise manages to discuss social concerns such as criminal offense, bigotry, and the struggles of leading a normal life after incarceration.

Plot Summary
The main character of "It Was an Accident" is Nicky Burkett, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who is returning to his old community in East London after being launched from jail. Nicky's previous consists of a history of petty criminal activities, however he is determined to turn over a new leaf and prevent any actions that could send him back to jail. He is determined about getting his life back on track, securing a good task, and taking care of his ex-girlfriend Noreen's daughter.

Regardless of Nicky's willpower, situations conspire against him. His rap sheet makes it challenging for him to find genuine work. He likewise faces pressure from his old buddy and infamous regional criminal, Mickey Cousins, played by James Bolam. Mickey ropes Nicky into what is expected to be a last break-in that unsurprisingly fails and lands Nicky in a renewed web of criminal activity.

Contributing to Nicky's troubles is the arrival of a weapon that's erroneously delivered to his hands. This ends up being the focal point of the occurring mayhem, as unintentional discharges and an escalating series of misconceptions result in a series of comedic yet tense occasions. With the weapon in play, Nicky's efforts to stay tidy spiral into a comical nightmare, challenging his perseverance and willpower.

Characters and Performances
Chiwetel Ejiofor's performance as Nicky Burkett received appreciation as he handled to deliver the character's aggravation and desperation with a persuading touch. The supporting cast, including Thandie Newton as Noreen and Max Beesley as Mickey's nephew, adds depth and humor to the story, each bringing charm and intricacy to their roles.

Styles and Social Commentary
Although "It Was an Accident" is framed as a funny, it deals with some weighty themes. The movie highlights the tough and typically unreasonable difficulties faced by ex-convicts trying to re-enter society. Nicky's fight with his stained reputation shows the preconception connected to those with a history of incarceration and the systemic challenges that consistently lead them back into criminal activity.

In addition, the movie discuss styles of racial bias and economic difficulty in London's East End. Nicky's environment is one where hardship and crime are interlinked, and opportunities for development are minimal, particularly for individuals of color and those with a criminal past.

Reception and Impact
Upon its release, "It Was an Accident" got blended evaluations. Some critics appreciated the film's blend of humor and severity, in addition to the strong efficiencies from the cast. However, others felt that the film was uneven, in some cases struggling to stabilize its comedic aspirations with the much deeper social problems it tried to deal with.

The film has preserved a level of cult status for its uncommon approach to category blending, showcasing Chiwetel Ejiofor's early work before he ended up being a global star. "It Was an Accident" stays a wacky entry in the British film catalogue, unforgettable for its effort to marry slapstick funny with a significant exploration of redemption and social reform.

Top Cast

  • Chiwetel Ejiofor (small)
    Chiwetel Ejiofor
    Nicky Burkett
  • Thandiwe Newton (small)
    Thandiwe Newton
    Noreen Hurlock
  • Max Beesley (small)
    Max Beesley
    Mickey Cousins
  • James Bolam (small)
    James Bolam
    Vernon Fitch
  • Nicola Stapleton (small)
    Nicola Stapleton
    Kelly
  • Neil Dudgeon (small)
    Neil Dudgeon
    Holdsworth
  • Hugh Quarshie (small)
    Hugh Quarshie
    George Hurlock
  • Jackie Williams
    Sharon
  • Sidh Solanki
    Rameez
  • Fraser Ayres (small)
    Fraser Ayres
    Dean Longmuire
  • Johnny Harris (small)
    Johnny Harris
    Robbie