Scrapper, the directorial debut by Charlotte Regan, offers a poignant exploration of working-class life and the complexities of family bonds. Set in the outskirts of London, the film follows Georgie, a 12-year-old girl who, after her mother’s passing, embarks on a journey of self-reliance. With a sharp wit and resourcefulness beyond her years, Georgie convinces social workers that her uncle is her guardian while maintaining the pristine order of her home. Her means of financial support? A partnership with her friend Ali, involving bicycle thefts. However, Georgie’s fragile world is disrupted when a knock at the door introduces her to Jason, her estranged father, whom she fails to recognize due to the passage of time. Determined to regain his place in her life, Jason’s presence becomes an enigma for Georgie and Ali. Is he here to help, to find solace, or perhaps with more sinister intentions? Scrapper masterfully avoids romanticizing the characters’ struggles with poverty and grief, maintaining a gritty sense of humor that keeps the story grounded. Cinematographer Molly Manning Walker infuses the film with vivid colors and youthful energy, creating a visual symphony that contrasts with Georgie’s harsh reality. Lola Campbell’s performance as Georgie shines as a beacon of resilience and defiance, while Harry Dickinson’s portrayal of Jason reveals a character grappling with guilt and redemption. Their father-daughter relationship forms the heart of the film, a coarse yet sincere connection that draws the audience in. Director Charlotte Regan’s vision for Scrapper stemmed from a desire to showcase working-class characters in a joyful light, free from the burden of their hardships. The result is a heartfelt story that evolves over the years, capturing the essence of resilience and familial bonds. Molly Manning Walker’s cinematography ensures the audience is firmly immersed in Georgie’s world, with dynamic camera work that races through alleyways and offers insightful glimpses into her life. Raman Chawla