A film about The Dull Men’s Club doesn’t scream “entertaining” but Born to Be Mild is the exact opposite of everything you think it is. The documentary short revels in celebrating the ordinary and mundane. And it’s packaged in such a warm and optimistic style and along with an upbeat soundtrack, this means it is really quite a fun and extraordinary film to watch.
The short is by English documentarian, Andy Oxley. Here, he takes a step back from the fast-paced rubbish that is modern life to instead interview England’s most obscure hobbyists. This includes a brick collector and a roundabout enthusiast (who has a friend who is also a fan and is said to have had sex on top of one). There is also a milk bottle collector and a post-office box spotter who round out these quirky and interesting fellas that are so entertaining to watch.
Born to Be Mild is a quintessentially English look at a club that is based in America and that celebrates the dull. The film however, is highly entertaining in celebrating the quiet contentment that can be found in the small things (where even an escalator ride proves fun or the peak of one’s day). This film is a fresh and insightful look at a topic that is worth further exploration, such is its intrigue.
Review Score: FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
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Born To Be Mild premiered at SXSW on March 14.
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