Local Hero (1983, PG)

 

In the post-Twelve-announcement discussion frenzy, I saw Local Hero mentioned a number of times as a must-watch PC film, so I made it a top priority. Well picked – this charming little film hops continents and deftly skips between reality and magic.

 

The story follows Mac, a young representative of Knox Oil, from Texas to Scotland on a mission to secure land for a new refinery. As he negotiates with the inhabitants of a small coastal village, he is gently drawn to their way of life. Stargazing, accordions, a house built entirely from scraps washed up on the beach – what more could you want from a movie?

 

Well, if you’re kicking off a Capaldi Fall, obviously the answer is “Peter Capaldi,” and this movie delivers on that score, too. PC plays Danny Oldsen, a local Knox representative that Mac meets up with upon arrival in Scotland. A friendly but awkward polyglot, Danny is less interested in the land deal and more concerned with attempting to woo a lovely young woman who may or may not be a mermaid.

 

PC brings an odd charm to Danny. Whether feeding an injured rabbit or giving a show-and-tell lesson on the word “kiss” in Japanese, he’s amusing to watch and fits in seamlessly with the film’s off-kilter appeal. Also, the fantastically silly run he’d perfected by The Thick of It was in its gangly early stages here.

 

And can I just say – holy youngness, Batman! This film is 30 years old, meaning that PC was only 25 when it was made. I love seeing the early works of older actors, searching the fresher faces and ungrayed hair for traces of the performer you know.

 

Accent Watch – I’m an accent nerd, all right? So sue me.

 

Score one for the Glaswegian! Scottish accent. 

 

(I have to admit, I’m not familiar enough with various Scottish accents to tell the difference between them, so some of the ones used by PC may not be his own. If anyone more knowledgeable wants to set me straight, feel free!)

 

Recommend?

 

In General – Yes. It’s super ‘80s, and it takes its time getting started, but it’s a quirky delight.

 

PC-wise – Definitely. PC has a good-sized role here, and the character is just plain smile-inducing.

 

Warnings

 

Nothing of significance – some language and sensuality.