Quick Info
If you’re in the mood for a musical that’s equal parts heartwarming and cheeky, "Sunshine on Leith" is a lovely little surprise. Adapted from a stage musical based on the songs of The Proclaimers, the story weaves together the lives of two soldiers returning home to Edinburgh, with romantic entanglements and family revelations taking center stage. It’s got this earnest, working-class warmth that British musicals tend to nail, and the city of Edinburgh provides such a genuine, atmospheric backdrop.
The musical numbers are a real highlight — there’s a rough-around-the-edges charm to them, and while not every cast member is a Broadway-level singer, their performances feel authentic. "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" is easily the standout, turning into a big, almost joyous group number that’s hard not to tap along to. It kind of feels like a love letter to the simple joys of home, love, and friendship.
Some of the plot twists veer into soap-opera territory, with misunderstandings and melodrama that feel a little forced. It doesn’t always quite earn its big emotional moments, but it never leans too hard into gloom either. If anything, some scenes could have used a little more time to breathe, especially when it comes to exploring the strained relationships at the heart of the story.
Visually, it’s a treat — lots of golden-hour cityscapes, and a few memorable street-dance sequences that bring the setting to life. The cinematography isn’t flashy but serves the tone, staying grounded and down-to-earth. Peter Mullan and Jane Horrocks are reliably great, and the younger leads bring an earnest likability, even if their acting can be a bit uneven at times.
You would enjoy this if you’re into jukebox musicals, stories that lean more on sentiment than spectacle, or if you just want something optimistic without being saccharine. If you like films like "Once" or even "Sing Street," this will probably hit the spot. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s undeniably feel-good and sincere.
