Peaky Blinders star Joe Cole’s new Birmingham-set drama is one you don’t want to miss

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British independent films are known for being daring, honest, and authentic. Films like Ken Loach’s Kes and Shane Meadows’ This is England are prime examples, bringing the stories of working-class people to life with a raw and realistic portrayal of everyday life – showing both the good and the bad.

Clio Barnard’s new film, I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning, is generating excitement and could be a major success. With a compelling story, talented young actors, and support from the Cannes Film Festival, it’s definitely a movie to watch out for.

The upcoming film I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning, based on Keiran Goddard’s novel and recently previewed before its Cannes Film Festival debut, tells the story of five friends from Birmingham. Now in their thirties, each of them is facing a difficult time in their lives.

Rian returns to Birmingham having found success in London. Meanwhile, Oli is caught up in a constant stream of partying, Conor is preparing to become a father and hoping to start his own business, and Patrick and Shiv are struggling with a secret that could ruin their relationship.

With such a talented cast, this movie is already generating excitement ahead of its debut at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20th.

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After playing John Shelby in Peaky Blinders, Joe Cole has demonstrated his range as an actor. He’s convincingly played both tough, intimidating characters – like Sean Wallace in Gangs of London – and those who show strength in a quieter, more nuanced way, as evidenced by his performance in the highly praised series A Small Light.

This particular set of skills seems perfect for a character like Rian, who is navigating the contrast between his newly wealthy life and memories of a troubled past.

What’s truly exciting about this movie isn’t any one actor, but the strength of the entire cast working together. Jay Lycurgo was highly praised for his performance in the Netflix series Steve, Daryl McCormack received a BAFTA nomination for his work with Emma Thompson in Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, and Anthony Boyle just won his second IFTA award – Best Lead Actor – for House of Guinness.

Lola Petticrew is another incredibly talented actor with two IFTA awards. They quickly became well-known for their honest and powerful performances in the critically acclaimed dramas Trespasses and Say Nothing. With these five actors working under the direction of Clio Barnard – who has expressed feeling inspired by younger talent – the film is sure to capture the attention of a wide audience.

The film has already gained recognition, being selected for Cannes Directors’ Fortnight – a special section of the Cannes Film Festival known for showcasing unique and creative movies. This marks the third time a film by director Barnard has been chosen for this prestigious event, following the selections of her Bradford-based films Ali & Ava in 2021 and The Selfish Giant in 2013.

“I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning” has everything needed for a compelling and realistic drama, and it could become a standout film if it delivers on its promise. It’s definitely one to keep an eye on.

I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning is coming soon to UK & Ireland cinemas through Curzon.

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2026-05-18 14:49