Brimstone and Treacle

Brimstone and Treacle is a 1976 British film, directed by Richard Loncraine, and written by Dennis Potter. The film stars Denholm Elliott, Michael Kitchen, and Patricia Lawrence. It was actually banned from the BBC for almost a decade due to its controversial themes and graphic content.

The film tells the story of a married couple, Tom and Norma Bates, who are trying to live out the traditional British dream. However, their world is devastated when their fragile and wheelchair-bound daughter, Patricia, is violently assaulted, leaving her in a coma with severe brain damage. Tom becomes increasingly desperate to save his daughter, convinced that a miracle could cure her.

One day, a mysterious young man named Martin, played by Michael Kitchen, arrives at their doorstep, claiming to be a friend of Patricia. Tom invites Martin into their home, once again searching for a miracle. Martin's arrival appears to be beneficial to the family, for though he talks uncomfortably about his past experience working with "disturbed" people, the young man seems kind and gentle to Patricia.

However, the story takes a dark turn when it is revealed that Martin is not who he appears to be; he is a devilish figure who has been sent by Satan to tempt and corrupt the Bates family. Through a series of manipulations and dark deeds, Martin causes a rift between Tom and Norma, turning them against each other and driving them to commit unspeakable acts.

As things spiral out of control, the audience is left guessing whether Martin has truly corrupted the family, or whether they were doomed to fall into his twisted trap from the start. Brimstone and Treacle is a story that explores themes of faith, morality, and the darkest depths of human nature. It is a haunting portrayal of a family that is slowly being torn apart by their own flaws and weaknesses.

The film is anchored by an amazing cast. Denholm Elliott is superb as Tom Bates, bringing a sense of desperation and hopelessness to a dad who will do anything to save his little girl, even if it means making unspeakable bargains with the devil. Michael Kitchen, in particular, is chilling as the enigmatic and mysterious Martin. He manages to convey an otherworldly presence that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

Overall, Brimstone and Treacle is a film that is not for the faint-hearted. Its content can be disturbing, and it is not afraid to tackle taboo subjects that many films shy away from. But for those who are brave enough to watch, it is a masterpiece of British cinema that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.