To say today that people are eager to write offensive and vulgar comments on the Internet is to state the obvious, like: the sun rises in the east. But there were times – and not so long ago – when vulgar rudeness was avoided in social interactions for fear of ostracism… or even punishment.
- Blueprint Pictures
- Film4
- StudioCanal
“Nasty Notes” takes us back to the not-so-distant past. Here are the times when vulgar language and vulgar behavior were the hallmarks of primitive people, unfortunate souls for whom the only salvation would be the fires of hell. A woman who indulged in too much could even be prosecuted for indecent behavior. In those days, British law saw little difference between vulgarity, prostitution, and homosexuality.
In such circumstances, the community of a small town is in for a shock. A certain God-fearing resident begins to receive letters. Their content is shocking. The police get involved in the case. They have a suspect. It is a neighbor known for her behavior unbecoming of Christian women and language that the biggest gutter scum would envy. An arrest is made. A trial is being prepared that could land the unfortunate woman behind prison bars. However, the woman does not admit guilt. Her only ally is a young policewoman, who herself has to struggle with the disbelief of society, because who has ever seen a woman wear a uniform. Meanwhile, the victim of the letters, a seemingly modest, God-fearing Christian, enjoys the fame of a local martyr…
- Blueprint Pictures
- Film4
- StudioCanal
Although it may be hard to believe, “Mean Notes” is inspired by true events from a hundred years ago. However, director Thea Sharrock and screenwriter Jonny Sweet are not interested in reconstructing an investigation and trial that everyone has long since forgotten. Their film is primarily intended to entertain. The contrast between old morality and the current indifference to vulgarity on the web is a constant source of humor. The creators deftly confront the habits of viewers, for whom offensive posts are an everyday occurrence on social media and comment sections on portals, with the characters’ outrage and shock and the radical actions of the police.
The film’s characters are not mirror images of real people, but are built in accordance with the long-standing tradition of British sitcoms. They are therefore expressive characters, seemingly one-dimensional, but hiding surprising depth. This means that viewers will easily laugh at hypocrites and chauvinists who, in a different narrative context, would arouse outrage.
- Blueprint Pictures
- Film4
- StudioCanal
What’s more, such a structure allows for the comedy frivolity to hide a deeper, surprisingly insightful study of individuals trapped in an oppressive system. The titular mean notes become a symbol of anarchist revolution, an expression of rebellion and helplessness in the face of religious enslavement and social acceptance of obvious inequality. However, the creators do not make these deeper considerations the core of the film, which may disappoint some viewers. “Mean Notes” remains primarily a comedy, with interestingly written characters, funny dialogues and first-rate acting. The latter probably does not surprise anyone. After all, Olivia Colman, Jessie Buckley and the rest of the cast are first-league actors. If you are going to the cinema to see “Mean Notes” not expecting a feminist manifesto, but a good, intelligent comedy, then you will certainly not be disappointed.
