Likely the first thing you learnt about Tangerine was that it was filmed entirely on an iPhone – however this fresh and vibrant drama offers far more than simply a gimmick.

Thanks to its camera, Tangerine  is obviously not the prettiest film – however its sharp script, brash performances and up-to-the-minute soundtrack provide so much enjoyment that its lo-fi look quickly becomes an irrelevance.

Outstanding debut film performances from Taylor and Rodriguez brilliantly lead the eccentric and colourful cast, and on this evidence are set to make huge names for themselves in the coming years. The sweet, heartfelt ending concludes things nicely.

It’s not much to look at, but you’ll quickly move past it as the charm, humour and surprising heart of Tangerine wins you over.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, Karren Karagulian

DIRECTOR: Sean Baker

WRITER: Sean Baker, Chris Bergoch

SYNOPSIS: Sin-Dee (Rodriguez), a working girl in LA, tears through Tinseltown on Christmas Eve looking for revenge on the pimp who broke her heart.

Tangerine was screened in Official Competition at the 2015 London Film Festival.