2025 BFI London Film Festival Review – Rotten Apples

      Bad Apples, 2025.

      Directed by Jonatan Etzler.

      Featuring Saoirse Ronan, Eddie Waller, Jacob Anderson, Rakie Ayola, Robert Emms, Sean Gilder.

      SYNOPSIS:

      A struggling primary school teacher starts making questionable choices after one of her students is hurt. The UK has been facing an educational crisis for some time now, characterized by a shortage of teachers and significant media attention on the stress stemming from Ofsted inspections. This backdrop serves as the setting for the darkly comedic thriller Bad Apples, marking Jonatan Etzler’s debut in English-language filmmaking. Saoirse Ronan portrays Maria, a teacher overwhelmed by a difficult student who disrupts the atmosphere on the eve of an Ofsted inspection.

      Set in Somerset, the narrative features numerous nods to the local apple orchards and cider production, which offer various interpretations of the film's title. The story begins with the class visiting a cider factory, but it quickly becomes evident that one student has thrown a shoe into the machinery, interrupting the trip and the calmness of the opening scene. Danny, one of Maria's most challenging students, adds to her pressures following a series of incidents that put her performance under scrutiny.

      It's advisable to approach Bad Apples without much knowledge of its plot, as the film takes unexpected twists that may surprise viewers given its focus on the UK education system and a primary school in rural Somerset. Once its direction is clear, the film becomes both hilarious and shocking, maintaining a delicate balance.

      While it may veer into the absurd at times, Ronan, known for her performances in films such as Lady Bird and See How They Run, holds everything together. Her portrayal is filled with anxiety and stress, perfectly conveying both the comedic and dramatic aspects of her role. With an emphasis on the school environment, strong performances from the young cast help keep the film grounded.

      Etzler and screenwriter Jess O’Kane explore the fundamental challenges faced by teachers in the UK today, including a lack of respect from parents and other sectors, along with insufficient pay. Many working in education will likely relate to these themes. Though it may stretch credibility at points, the film raises several important discussion topics.

      Bad Apples is undoubtedly a unique film that may split opinions, yet it resonates well with audiences. The tonal balance is mostly effective, and Saoirse Ronan’s performance enhances a premise and structure that could easily feel weak. Maria is a character we're encouraged to support despite her questionable decisions, with Ronan effectively portraying her moral struggles. For a film centered on a rural primary school, it defies expectations and benefits from it.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Chris Connor