Tyrannosaur Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

An angry man kicks his dog, meets a woman with a worse life, and they both find out misery loves company, but with more shouting and less cuddling.

🍿 Tyrannosaur: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction of Joseph and His Rage

The film opens by showcasing Joseph, a man consumed by uncontrolled rage and violent tendencies. He’s a heavy drinker and quick to anger, leading to destructive outbursts and a life of isolation. His behavior isolates him from any meaningful connection or community. The film immediately establishes the depth of his self-destructive nature with unsettling scenes.

Meeting Hannah and a Glimmer of Hope

Joseph seeks refuge in a charity shop after an altercation. There he meets Hannah, a kind and religious woman who offers him compassion and understanding. She sees something beyond his hardened exterior. This encounter provides a potential turning point for Joseph, introducing a possibility of redemption and a different path.

Hannah’s Hidden Struggles

As Joseph and Hannah form an unlikely friendship, it is revealed that Hannah is suffering from domestic abuse at the hands of her husband, James. Her seemingly peaceful life is a facade hiding intense suffering and fear. The film draws a parallel between Joseph’s internal battles and Hannah’s external trauma, creating a complex dynamic.

Escalation and Tragedy

The cycle of violence and abuse escalates, leading to a tragic event that tests the fragile bond between Joseph and Hannah. Joseph’s past actions come back to haunt him, while Hannah reaches a breaking point. The film explores the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and the desperate measures taken in survival.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Joseph (Peter Mullan): A violent and self-destructive man seeking redemption through an unlikely connection.
• Hannah (Olivia Colman): A Christian charity shop worker who is secretly suffering from domestic abuse.
• James (Eddie Marsan): Hannah’s cruel and abusive husband.
• Samuel (Samuel Bottomley): A young boy who lives across the street from Joseph and forms a bond with him.
• Tommy (Ned Dennehy): Joseph’s scraggly-haired drinking partner.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Joseph: “My best friend’s dying of cancer. I killed my dog. I’m fucked.” – Joseph’s blunt confession to Hannah when seeking refuge in her shop reveals his self-destructive state.
• Hannah: “Why Tyrannosaur? You said something about your wife Tyrannosaurus or something?” – Hannah’s innocent inquiry prompts Joseph to explain the dark humor behind his nickname for his late wife.
• Joseph: “What’s Tyrannosaurus about? Yeah.” – Joseph acknowledging the nickname and hinting at the destructive nature within himself.

💰Box Office

• Budget: Unknown
• Domestic Gross: $22,321
• Worldwide Gross: $676,111

💥 Tyrannosaur Reviews

Personal Review

Tyrannosaur is a film that hit me hard. I wasn’t prepared for the emotional intensity. Peter Mullan is amazing as Joseph. You feel for him despite his flaws. Olivia Colman’s performance is just heartbreaking. A must-watch if you like gritty, realistic dramas.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of independent British dramas.”
  • “Viewers interested in character-driven stories.”
  • “Those who appreciate strong acting performances.”
  • “Those interested in social commentary on violence and abuse.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence.”
  • “Domestic abuse.”
  • “Animal cruelty.”
  • “Strong language.”
  • “Mature themes.”

Professional Reviews

• Rolling Stone: “Tyrannosaur is an unflinching portrait of rage and redemption, anchored by Peter Mullan’s raw performance and Olivia Colman’s heartrending vulnerability. Paddy Considine’s directorial debut is a stark, unforgettable journey into the depths of human suffering, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
• Indiewire: “Considine’s direction is assured, drawing powerful performances from his cast, especially Colman, who delivers a career-defining performance of subtlety and strength. The film doesn’t shy away from brutal realities, presenting a visceral and emotionally charged experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
• IMDB: “Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman are nothing short of incredible in Tyrannosaur, delivering intense performances that expose the raw emotions of their character. This film has the rare ability to be bleak, raw, redemptive, and touching at once. It is simply one of the best British films.

Audience Reactions

Olivia Colman’s performance is absolutely stunning.: Viewers consistently praised Olivia Colman’s acting.

The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life.: Many people find the film bleak but powerful in its realism.

Overall Consensus: A dark, thought-provoking drama with powerful performances and a raw depiction of human struggles. A must-see for fans of British cinema and intense character studies.

Awards

1. BAFTA Awards (Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer)- 2012

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Paddy Considine expanded the story from his BAFTA-winning short film ‘Dog Altogether,’ using the same lead actors Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman in similar roles.”
• “Considine has mentioned basing aspects of the characters on people he knew, and drawing on personal experiences to inform the film’s emotional core.”
• “The film’s title, ‘Tyrannosaur,’ is explained within the movie as a nickname the main character Joseph had for his late wife, referring to a joke about her weight causing ‘ripples’ like in Jurassic Park.”

🖥️ How to Watch Tyrannosaur?

Currently, ‘Tyrannosaur’ is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for streaming options, as availability may vary by region. Some platforms may also offer the option to purchase a digital copy to own.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Tyrannosaur, you might like these similar films:

• Nil by Mouth (1997): A similarly unflinching portrayal of domestic violence and working-class life in Britain, directed by actor Gary Oldman.
• Dead Man’s Shoes (2004): Also starring Paddy Considine, this Shane Meadows film explores themes of revenge and the consequences of violence in a raw, realistic style.
• This is England (2006): Directed by Shane Meadows, this film depicts working class life in England, exploring similar issues of anger, violence, and social alienation, capturing a particular time and place.
• Manchester by the Sea (2016): Deals with grief, loss, and the struggle to find redemption after a tragic event, with a focus on character-driven storytelling and emotional realism.

🛒 Tyrannosaur Related Products

• Peep Show: Series 1-9 [DVD]: See Olivia Colman in a very different, comedic role! A classic British sitcom showcasing her versatility.
• Dead Man’s Shoes [Blu-ray]: Another film written and acted by Paddy Considine, that’s also very dark and gritty.

🎧 Soundtrack

Tyrannosaur features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Wanderin Star” – performed by Nick Hemming

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Dog Altogether (2007) starring Olivia Colman and Peter Mullan | Film4 Short

Did you know that Tyrannosaur was based on a short film? It stars the same amazing actors and gives you a glimpse into the story’s roots. It’s a powerful watch, so be prepared!

Paddy Considine And Olivia Coleman Talk Tyrannosaur | Empire Magazine

Want to hear Paddy Considine and Olivia Colman talk about making Tyrannosaur? This interview gives you great insight into their process and the film’s themes. Definitely worth a watch if you loved the movie!

Tyrannosaur (Paddy Considine, 2011) – Olivia Colman’s incredible acting

Olivia Colman’s performance in Tyrannosaur is truly breathtaking. This video compiles some of her most powerful scenes. I think you’ll agree it showcases her incredible talent!

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