Film Review — All of Us Strangers
Andrew Haigh’s superbly crafted, almost unbearably sad adaptation of Taichi Yamada’s novel features outstanding performances
Writer-director Andrew Haigh’s acclaimed, Oscar-snubbed but not BAFTA-snubbed new film All of Us Strangers is not the first time Taichi Yamada’s novel Strangers has been adapted for the screen. The Discarnates (1988) followed hot on the heels of the 1987 novel. Haigh’s version keeps the premise, and 1987 as a key element of the narrative, but makes several significant additions and tweaks, as well as relocating the story to present-day Britain.
The plot involves gay, lonely screenwriter Adam (Andrew Scott), who lives almost entirely alone in a newly built London block of flats. The only other occupant, Harry (Paul Mescal) is also gay, and more outgoing than Adam. Harry knocks on Adam’s door one evening, drunk and keen for a bit of company, but despite sparks of attraction, Adam initially rebuffs his advances, wishing to be alone. However, when they meet again, Adam reciprocates, and the two embark on a sexual relationship.
Amid all of this, whilst writing a screenplay inspired by his late parents, who died in a car crash when he was twelve, Adam visits his old family home. To his surprise, he finds his parents still living there…
