'Denied' is a complicated thriller directed by the exceptionally talented Timothy Reynard. Quite simply the teenager has managed to capture the essence of a challenging subject matter well beyond his years. Combined with the mature performance of relatively unheard of lead actor Andrew Dawson, who portrays 'Alexander Manning' with sublime ease.

Holly Mann's portrayal of emotionally unstable 'Celine DuPont' twists and turns throughout, overall Mann's subtle performance is defined in the final few scenes, where tragically no fairytale finale is offered for the miss-match couple.

An unmissable chemistry is created between Alexander Manning (Andrew Dawson) and everything he touches within this film. For the boyishly handsome Dawson and his Grant/Law-esque appearance I can only see this being a stepping stone onto greater things. Much the same can be said of director Timothy Reynard, who was certainly not out of place walking the red carpet with 'Oscar' nominated Ken Russell.

As a feature film itself, no it is not a Hollywood blockbuster by any stretch of the imagination, made on a shoe string budget it shows little in the way of special effects, and why should it? The acting, stunning soundtrack and clever storyline provide all essential ingredients for a sound production. A sorry state of affairs for British film? I think not. With guidance the future of British film potentially is here.