Big Font. Large Spacing

Big Font. Large Spacing is a 2009 eccentrically titled British independent film that charmingly Tangoes through the insecurities, adventures, aspirations, and triumphs of postgraduate life. Directed by Paul Howard Allen, the movie showcases talented actors Gareth Aldon, Jamie Kristian, and Amy Morgan taking on the roles of fresh out of school graduates, setting out into the real world.

The plot navigates through a brilliantly arranged series of happenings triggered by the insistence of the protagonist to write a 10,000-word dissertation in Time New Roman size 12. The subtextual analogy in the title 'Big Font. Large Spacing’ is cleverly paralleled to the faces and phases of the outer world that the central characters navigate.

Gareth Aldon takes the limelight as Sam, a twenty-something university graduate anticipating the twofold challenges of creating his first novel and stepping into the adult world. Aldon impeccably captures Sam’s wide-eyed naivety and stubborn insistence on bending the world to his viewpoint. Sam's world view is interestingly dense, creative and continuously evolving, making his character really enjoyable and relatable to the audience.

Jamie Kristian shines as Bill, Sam’s best friend and someone who seems to have taken the opposite path on the crossroads of life. He is seen as the quintessential young adult with a pragmatic view of the world. Kristian conveys the character's apprehensions and uncertainties with remarkable authenticity, adding depth to Bill's experiences as contrasted to Sam's.

Amy Morgan, portraying the role of an adventurous, independent woman named Katie, completes the trio. She brings a very special dimension to this refreshing exploration of young adulthood. Katie's strong, feminist character is portrayed in a subtle, yet profound way, making her a very likable and memorable character.

Sam’s university dissertation is quite literally the script of the film, with each chapter revealing a new plot twist, or introducing a new character. The storyline easily swings between significant chapters of their lives, offering delightful insights into the path they navigate as freshly graduated adults. All this while subtly evoking a sense of nostalgic familiarity for anyone who has felt the joy, apprehension, and chaos of their early adulthood.

Though billed as a comedy, Big Font. Large Spacing delves deep into the realm of poignant self-realization and the power dynamics within friendships. The comedy in the film feels very natural and raw, consisting mostly of situational humor and comic dialogues peppered throughout the plot.

Our protagonists try to grasp the meaning of adulthood, love, and friendship amidst hilarious trials and tribulations. Through nights of drinking, arguments, heartbreak, and laughter, the trio’s bond strengthens while they increasingly understand the dimensions of life and love.

Director Paul Howard Allen's adept storytelling skillfully harmonizes humor, emotion, surprise, and drama, making this film a laugh riot with a heartfelt undertone. The movie effectively addresses the terrifying transition from student life to adult world with a gripping narrative, strong character development, and lighthearted humor.

Cinematography by James Watson weaves magic in integrating the visuals to the unprecedented title and its whimsical interpretation. The glamour-less appeal of the film tugs at the heartstrings, making us feel as if we’re living the characters' lives alongside them. The scoring of the film is equal parts pleasant and quirky, enhancing the narrative significantly.

Big Font. Large Spacing is a must-watch for those who love unconventional cinematic experiences. It serves as a beautiful metaphor for the blank pages of life that every young adult attempts to fill with their own typefaces and formatting. With realistic portrayals, engaging storyline and thoughtful humor, it will surely leave its viewers nostalgically delighted, while providing them a hearty laughter.