Happy-Go-Lucky"" is a lighthearted comedy that explores the life of Pauline ""Poppy"" Cross (Sally Hawkins) and her perpetual cheery attitude toward life in modern day North London. Hawkins, a primary schoolteacher, lives with her sarcastic but loving best friend Zoe (Alexis Zegerman) and faces situations such as flamenco lessons, a fight with her pregnant sister and a love affair with a social worker with infinite happiness.
As the title reveals, Hawkins goes about her life in a carefree manner. She is idealistic - even giddy - about the most mundane activities, including having her back prodded after a trampoline-related injury. Her undying optimism is endearing, especially in the opening scene when she discovers her bike has been stolen. ""I didn't even get to say goodbye,"" she observes, and then happily skips away. And even when she is in pain, she can't help but laugh; it seems as if it is impossible for her not to attempt to spread her joyfulness.
Unfortunately, those around her don't always see her optimism in a positive light. An antisocial bookseller raises an eyebrow at her enthusiastic interjections and her driver's ed teacher Scott (Eddie Marsan) berates her for her quirky behavior. ""You're distracted by squirrels, schoolchildren and senior citizens in surgical pants ... you celebrate chaos,"" he says in criticism.
Character development is the most prominent strength of the film, as the plot is not overwhelmingly action-packed. The most exciting plot developments occur when Hawkins encounters a metally ill homeless man and when she gets into fights with Marsan over their clashing philosophies. But as the relationship between Hawkins and Marsan develops, the outcome becomes harder to predict. Hawkins' regular positivity is tested as Marsan's anger issues begin to take over.
The film's structure is unusual, at the very least. Instead of having the typical conflict and resolution, it is essentially a character study of Hawkins - how she interacts with those around her and how those around her react to her behavior. It is a refreshing approach to observe how the world responds to unwavering optimism and friendliness.
Gary Yershon's musical score also adds to the film's positive vibes and vivacity. It is a sure complement to Hawkins's quirkiness. A brisk waltz acts as the film's prevalent theme, mimicking her bubbly, bouncy attitude.
""Happy-Go-Lucky"" is the epitome of the adage ""life is what you make it."" One can be happy (like Hawkins), or angry (like Marsan), but the only thing that will change is the amount of fun one will have in life along the way. As Hawkins illustrates through her everyday eccentricities, true beauty and happiness can come out of the little things in life. There are only a few times in the movie where there are laugh-out-loud moments, but there's no doubt that its lightheartedness and Hawkins's poignancy is bound to put a smile on you r face.
Grade: A/B
