Dangerous Parking

Dangerous Parking (2007) is a British drama film directed by Peter Howitt, based on the novel of the same name by Stuart Browne. The film follows the story of a successful screenwriter, and recovering drug addict, based in London named Noah Arkwright, played by Peter Howitt himself.

At the beginning of the movie, Noah is experiencing writer's block, and his life is a mess. His girlfriend Lorraine, played by Saffron Burrows, is frustrated with his inability to commit to their relationship, and Noah is struggling to come up with a new script. After a relapse, Noah's agent tells him that he needs to get his life together if he wants to keep his career on track.

Noah decides to leave London and go on a road trip to Scotland to reconnect with his past and find inspiration for his new script. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including a group of bikers, a singer named Claire, and a troubled teenager named Saffron. These encounters force Noah to confront his addiction and his past, and he eventually discovers the inspiration he needs to start writing again.

The film features impressive performances from the entire cast, but especially from Peter Howitt, who manages to capture the nuances of addiction and the struggles of a creative process. Saffron Burrows is also excellent as Lorraine, bringing depth and complexity to her character.

One of the standout aspects of Dangerous Parking is its use of location. The film was shot on location in Scotland, and the stunning landscape serves as a backdrop for Noah's journey. The cinematography is as impressive as the storyline, with sweeping shots of the Scottish countryside interspersed with close-ups of the characters' faces.

The film's soundtrack is also worth mentioning. It features music from a variety of artists, from folk singer John Martyn to indie rock band The Libertines. The music complements the film's mood and adds to the overall atmosphere of the story.

Although the film deals with heavy themes like addiction and mortality, it is not a depressing or bleak movie. There are moments of levity and humor that offset the darker elements of the story. The characters are flawed and complex, but ultimately, they are relatable and sympathetic.

Overall, Dangerous Parking is a well-crafted drama that explores themes of addiction and creativity. Its stunning cinematography and excellent performances make it a compelling and engaging film. It is a must-watch for fans of British cinema, as well as anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotional story.