In a working-class London neighbourhood, Janet, a widow, has welcomed relatives into her home. In addition to her elderly mother, Kath and her son, Billy, Janet lives with her daughter, Valerie and Valerie’s abusive, alcoholic husband, Ray. This mix proves explosive.

I thought my family was dysfunctional. Nil By Mouth is brutal, violent and utterly grim. It’s also utterly brilliant because of it.

Gary Oldman proves to be as good a director as he is an actor. Speaking of acting, the entire cast shines, with Ray Winstone, Kathy Burke, and a pre-EastEnders Laila Morse all worthy of special mention.

None other than Eric Clapton provides the excellent soundtrack and none other than Luc Besson produces.

Nil By Mouth won plaudits galore on its release and time hasn’t made it lose any of its bite. If anything, the intervening 30 years have made this even more caustic.

An absolute gem but another tough watch.

4.5 out of 5 stars