COMPARED with Vera Drake, this is like a day out at Disney, but although it's a lighter, brighter view of modern life from the master observer of the human character, it still has his trademark blend of dark humour and tenderness.

Poppy (Sally Hawkins) is an optimistic and happy-go-lucky primary school teacher, who doesn't let anything get her down. Foil to this eternal cheeriness is Scott (Eddie Marsan), her grumpy and aggressive driving instructor. The clash of personalities and the harsh realities Poppy ends up facing make for gentle laughs and the odd lump in the throat.

Abigail's Party it ain't, but if the words "life-affirming" work for you, it's a must.