Unlike the two siblings at the heart of The Incomer, Edinburgh International Film Festival is an open and welcoming festival for films from all over the globe. However, it does not forget its roots. Hence, it opens this year’s edition with former Filmhouse and EIFF alumnus Louis Paxton’s debut existential comedy.
It sees North Highland and Islands Council officer Daniel (Domhnall Gleeson) sent to deliver a face-to-face eviction and relocation notice to the two inhabitants of U
The last time a well-meaning Scot was met with hostile locals when visiting a remote Scottish island ended with a bonfire inside a giant Alexander Skarsgard. Albeit here it would be “Not the gulls, the gulls” rather than “not the bees, not the bees”.
It is not a surprise that this film had such a great reception at Sundance. Because despite being a very “Scottish” film, its central themes of isolation, overcoming social awkwardness and societal barriers, and finding connection and community where you least expect it… these are universal.
Cinema is the ultimate medium for community. More accessible than the theatre, there is nothing like seeing a group of strangers sit in a darkened room and share a communal experience: whether that be laughing, crying, or screaming together.
It can expose you to different people, environments, and experiences. Resulting in a different view of the world. Which is exactly what happens not only to Daniel, but also to Isla and Sandy. Strong performances and shifting dynamics between this Odd Throuple keep the story engaging. Despite the film going round in circles on the central issue of the impending eviction… but what other way can you travel when stuck on an island?
Domhnall Gleeson has slowly been carving out a niche in Hollywood for socially awkward, nerdish, but engaging leading men. Think About Time, Ex_Machina, etc. And he strikes up an excellent on-screen rapport with a fierce and fiery Gayle Rankin, as the tempestuous and tortured Isla.
The film’s secret weapon, however, is Grant O’Rourke. With the bushy beard and flowing locks, he has the ruggedness and presence of Russell Crowe, but the innocence of a young child. He has a wicked sense of comic timing that complements the sweetness in his deadpan delivery. He also exudes sadness and pathos as he struggles with his evolving feelings towards his sister and Daniel.
There are moments when a darkness threatens to creep into proceedings, which would have provided the film with a welcome edge. Cutting through some of the quaintness and slightly twee nature.
Despite its initial stance on the titular incomers, Louis Paxton has made a comedy that encourages us to embrace our own and others’ idiosyncrasies. It is a sweet showcase of Scottish talent and locations that will appeal to the masses. Just don’t go booking an island trip any time soon!
The Incomer is in UK cinemas from September 4
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Director: Louis Paxton
Stars: Domhnall Gleeson, Gayle Rankin, Grant O’Rourke, Michelle Gomez, Emun Elliot
Runtime: 103 minutes
Country: UK/Ireland
