WILD BILL ***

This slice of British realism marked the directorial debut of actor Dexter Fletcher and has all the propensity for sentimentality but Fletcher keeps things suitably tough and the highest compliment I can pay it is that it's as good as the best of British television. Fletcher also co-wrote the film, (with Danny King), and brings both a good deal of humour and tenderness to proceedings. He also draws excellent performances from his cast. In the title role, Charlie Creed-Miles is outstanding as the father, recently released from prison, trying to forge some kind of relationship with his two young sons, (Will Poulter and Sammy Williams, both first-rate). Worth seeking out.