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Film
Apr 13, 2026

‘Departures’ Review: Darkly Comic Journey Through Heartbreak and Identity Premieres in UK Cinemas

AI Summary
The film ‘Departures’, co‑written and co‑directed by Neil Ely and Lloyd Eyre‑Morgan, follows Benji’s turbulent post‑breakup spiral, blending dark comedy with a vivid visual style to examine love, body image and toxic masculinity. While its nonlinear storytelling and strong lead chemistry earn praise, an over‑reliance on voice‑over sometimes stalls the narrative. The movie opens in UK and Irish cinemas on 17 April.

‘Departures’ arrives in UK and Irish theatres on 17 April, offering a sharply observed portrait of a man navigating the aftermath of a breakup. The story centers on Benji, a thirty‑something who, after parting ways with his charismatic trainer Jake, plunges into a haze of parties, substance use and fleeting encounters in an attempt to dull the ache of lost love.

The film tackles weighty subjects—body‑image insecurity, familial rejection and the pressures of toxic masculinity—yet it avoids sentimentality by leaning into a darkly comic tone and a poppy visual palette. Its elliptical editing stitches together present‑day self‑destruction with fragmented memories of Jake, creating a nonlinear rhythm that mirrors the disorienting experience of a broken heart.

Ey​re‑Morgan not only co‑writes and co‑directs but also embodies Benji, delivering a performance that feels both self‑deprecating and raw. His on‑screen chemistry with David Tag’s Jake provides the emotional anchor of the film, allowing the audience to glimpse the genuine connection that fuels Benji’s subsequent turmoil.

Despite its strengths, the movie leans heavily on voice‑over narration, which at times hampers momentum, especially during emotionally charged scenes. The tendency to verbalise feelings rather than let the cinematography speak can feel redundant, and the multiple flashbacks occasionally drift into over‑exposition.

Overall, ‘Departures’ stands as a thoughtful exploration of love, identity and the search for authenticity, while also showcasing the burgeoning talent emerging from northern England’s film scene.