First the positives: Great to see original Welsh language drama being promoted outside of Wales on international platforms and its ok. The filmography is good and the direction decent with some strong performances (Mark lewis jones is particularly great). However, the screenplay and welsh dialogue is dire. It is peppered with annoying exclamations after each sentence ("fudge that!", "fish cakes!") and full of banal army type references where the characters call each other "captain" and "gaffer" going to "trenchtown". Every sentence is tagged by a ridiculous expression that no-one would say (starting in welsh and usually ending in English). The dialogue reads like a ridiculous story that hasnt been adapted to a screen. Its the difference that currently exists between credible euro and welsh language stuff, which just isnt credible or particularly real enough. Its a shame because otherwise its a decent crime caper that is generally well made with decent actors but the dialogue lets it down. Its meant to be a little tongue in cheek (although it would have fared better as a straight thriller). Basically its just not streetwise enough. Utlimately, its positive for welsh drama but new writing talent needs to be nurtured because the basic ingredients are promising. Saying that, I really enjoyed it!
Review of Dal Y Mellt
