SWEET SIXTEEN

Year: 2002
USA: Lions Gate
UK: Icon Film Distribution
Cast: Martin Compston, Annmarie Fulton, William Ruane, Michelle Abercromby, Michelle Coulter, Gary McCormack, Tommy McKee, Gary Maitland, Junior Walker
Director: Ken Loach
Countries: UK / Germany / Spain
USA: 106 mins
UK: 105 mins
USA Rated: R for pervasive strong language, drug content and some violence
UK Certificate: 18 contains very strong language
USA Release Date: 23 May 2003 (Limited Release - Los Angeles)
USA Release Date: 16 May 2003 (Limited Release - New York)
UK Release Date: 4 October 2002

Synopsis

Liam's mum, Jean (Michelle Coulter), is in prison but is due to be released in time for his 16th birthday. This time Liam (Martin Compston) is determined that things will be different. He dreams of a family life he's never had, which means creating a safe haven beyond the reach of wasters like Jean's boyfriend Stan (Gary McCormack) and his own mean-spirited grandfather.

But first he's got to raise the cash - no mean feat for a skint teenager. It's not long before Liam and his pals' crazy schemes lead them into all sorts of trouble. Finding himself dangerously out of his depth, Liam knows he should walk away. Only this time he just can't let go.

Winner of Best Screenplay (Paul Laverty) at Cannes Film Festival 2002.