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This wittily observant film presents a beguiling picture of the British
seaside. Director Marion Grierson inventively switches styles and techniques to
impressive effect. the shot of the faces from below as if from the perspective
of the beach shows children looking down in curiosity at what they've found and
gives a marvellous impression of their sense of wonder. The overlapping snippets of
dialogue convey the diversity of seaside visitors as well as the charming oddity
of overheard conversation.
The lightness of touch which characterises Grierson's direction beautifully
matches the breezy mood of a day on the beach. The holiday opportunities for
languor and for fun are captured with a subtle eye for detail, and a gift for
evocation: post-lunch torpor is suggested by slow-motion dancing, which then
elides into perkier night-time dancing.
The film is imaginatively edited, and often cut surprisingly quickly, given
the relaxed mood. The lyrical commentary is written by W.H. Auden with a wry
touch: "The heat beats on the streets. The homeless and the ice cream vendors
congratulate themselves... the hands of the clock appear too tired too
move."
Ros Cranston
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1. Beach time (3:35)
