FILM REVIEW - A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN (2017)

Prison dramas don’t come as immersive as this flick. A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN is a no nonsense, go for the tubular experience that is unlike anything currently in British cinemas. Joe Cole, a prominent figure in the acclaimed BBC gangster epic 'Peaky Blinders' gives a career defining role as Billy Moore, a Liverpudlian kickboxer who is arrested for drug dealing. Following in the tradition of MIDNIGHT EXPRESS, Billy is thrown into a Thailand prison and experiences the definition of Hell on Earth. Thailand is known for housing some of the worst prisons in the world. Director Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire (Johnny Mad Dog) immerse the viewer in unique and bold ways. One of the film's unique features is how it crafts alientation, in both the viewer and Billy. Given that he is a foreigner living in another country, most of the dialogue is delivered in the country's native language. Following in the tradition of films such as 'Film Socialisme' or the underrated 'The Tribe', Sauvaire chooses to not include subtitles throughout. This makes the action more unpredictable & realistic. 

When Billy enters the overcrowded cell for the first time, we can grasp what the other inmates by their body language. We might not understand the language but we can read their intent. Shooting in mostly long takes and tight shots, as a viewer you really feel like you are observing from a corner of the cell.  Featuring a cast of non-actors, many of whom are real-life gang members, A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN redefines authenticity in mainstream cinema. Making a near-silent movie works as it is used to heighten the drama and mirror the struggle Billy has with communicating with prison guards and inmates. There is no true sense time. Given that these events are based on true accounts from the real Billy Moore, who also features in a really well done cameo, witnessing scenes of police brutality, suicide, corruption and rape is extremely difficult. Although Sauvaire never shy's away from the brutal reality of these acts of extreme violence, they never feel exploitative. He manages to craft the right balance between showing and pulling back when it could became unnecessary. 

Although the prisoners might do unspeakable things to their other cellmates, there is a collective camaraderie at times which is touching but never sentimental. Although Billy at times is able to protect himself, he is out of his depth in more ways than one. The first half of DAWN feels directionless, like he is floating in time, getting high and revelling in the grimness of prison life. This and the overall bleak realism could deter people from continuing watching the film. Those that stick around will be rewarded. The narrative kick in gear when he befriends Fame, a transvestite inmate who can see the goodness behind the mask of rage and fear he has to front. Although quite predictable, he manages to built a romantic connection with Fame. This is a catalyst to get him in some manner of direction. The second half of DAWN plays out more like a conventional sports movie, withover music dominating his progression to greatness. After numerous failed attempts Billy manages to become part of the prison boxing team. Battling between the urges of being an addict and a body that is rapidly deteroriating, Billy earns respect for mastering the act of Muay Thai. 

Claustrophobic, at times often unwatchably, A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN might follow in the tradition and use a couple of cliches in many a prison flick, DAWN is worth a watch for it's originality. The sheer visceral and bold realism elevate this to a whole other level of filmmaking. The fight sequences, sexual violence and acting terrific. In terms of storytelling DAWN stands alone. By the time you reach the unconventional ending, you might feel like you have been through the struggles like Billy. It's a truly rewarding experience.