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United Kingdom · 2018
1h 40m
Director Tinge Krishnan
Starring Michaela Coel, Arinzé Kene, Ronke Adekoluejo, George MacKay
Genre Drama, Music
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A single mother in London's Camden Town hears music when she meets a handsome stranger with a past. But she's not sure she's ready to open her heart.
In the close, doting way the camera caresses its stars, Been So Long certainly shows where it chief strengths lie: Coel and Kene may both capably handle their songs, but the film’s real music is in their faces, singing, silent or otherwise.
Screen International by Nikki Baughan
Crucially, underneath the music and the soft-focus romance Been So Long makes some poignant observations about community, family and the importance of connection.
The Playlist by Oliver Lyttelton
It’s a cast full of the sort of faces that regularly pop up on ones-to-watch lists, and it’s the biggest thing that Been So Long has going for it. “Chewing Gum” fans will know how talented Coel is, but she’s particularly good here with a role that’s more adult and serious than her breakout turn (while still letting her have some fun occasionally).
The Guardian by Peter Bradshaw
Been So Long has a sweet-natured openness. It balances the tough realities of life in the city with the buoyant possibilities of romance isn’t easy, and succeeds a lot of the time. Michaela Coel is tremendous in the leading role.
Tinge Krishnan’s Been So Long is a musical delight of heart-warming songs, sardonic British humour, and fantastic performances.
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