Yes, it’s all a little bit Leaving Glasvegas, but without a doubt this Scottish cast are on vintage form with Donkeys. Jackie (Kate Dickie) is not having the best time. Her husband is dead and she blames her father, Alfie. She hasn’t spoken to him for ten years. Alfie (James Cosmo) is the original Glasgow Barra-boy, he’s got the banter, he’s got the twinkle in his eye, and he’s got the lifetime of boozing and mistakes to show for it. But what happens when it’s time to make amends and sort out all those messy years? Where do you start? Alfie has a plan with the help his best mate (Brian Pettifer). The problem is it’s a half arsed plan, although where better to start than with a bit of stalking.

The script is strong and with the direction of Morag McKinnon, it’s ability to change mood and pace in a heartbeat is impressive. Seamlessly weaving light comedy with the most challenging moral scenes of death and dying. The characterisations are boldly defined, with a truly gritty performance from Kate Dickie and bang on the money comic timing from James Cosmo with some real killer lines delivered perfectly amongst these strained family relationships.

But for all it’s heartfelt complicated family and feud content this is no doom and gloom, pass me the Buckfast and pills, Scottish poverty porn film. Donkeys genuinely manages to finish on a high note, following those golden rules of the business called show – make’em laugh, make ‘em cry and above all have cheerie uplifting ending. Powerful stuff. Let’s just hope the light at the end of the tunnel isn’t the exit sign.

Showing @ Filmhouse 20th June and 24th June 13:00