🎬Bonobo

Judith (Tessa Peake-Jones) is a reserved, middle-aged divorcee whose world is turned upside down when her daughter, Lily (Eleanor Wyld), abruptly drops out of law school. Lily moves into an unconventional commune led by Anita (Josie Lawrence), an eccentric former primatologist.

The commune lives according to the behavioral principles of bonobo apes—advocating conflict resolution through physical affection, free love, and open intimacy rather than aggression. Appalled by her daughter's new lifestyle, Judith travels to the commune to drag Lily back to reality. However, Anita challenges Judith to spend time living among the group before judging them, setting off an unexpected journey of self-discovery, generational friction, and personal liberation

💡 Did you know?
Bechdel Test Standout: The film stands out in indie cinema for featuring two women over the age of 50 in central, complex lead roles that pass the Bechdel test with ease.

Breakout British Cast: Features early supporting roles from James Norton (Happy Valley, Grantchester) and Will Tudor (Game of Thrones, Shadowhunters).

Low-Budget Indie Charm: Directed and co-written by Matthew Hammett Knott as his feature debut, balancing satire with a gentle, thought-provoking examination of middle-age redemption and social norms

⭐ Film Evaluation & Ratings 📈
⭐ Global Critical & Audience Consensus: 5.8 / 10 (IMDb / British Film Festival Reviews)

Appreciated for its witty premise, warm tone, and the strong acting chemistry between Tessa Peake-Jones and Josie Lawrence

🎨 Narrative & Thematic Craft: 6.4 / 10

A quirky, lighthearted exploration of female liberation, generational dynamics, and unconventional lifestyles.

📝 Portal Recommendation:

A pleasant inclusion for British Indie Comedy Archives, Unconventional Lifestyle Features, and Middle-Age Coming-of-Age Cinema. Pairs naturally with titles like Calendar Girls (2003), Wanderlust (2012), or The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015).