Tyrannosaur
Joseph is a man whose volatile temper and simmering rage pull him toward self destructive choices. Life spins out of control as violence shadows his every step, leaving him isolated and reactive. When he meets Hannah, a warm hearted charity shop worker with her own burdens, a tense bond forms... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: February 03, 2026
About Tyrannosaur
Joseph is a man whose volatile temper and simmering rage pull him toward self destructive choices. Life spins out of control as violence shadows his every step, leaving him isolated and reactive. When he meets Hannah, a warm hearted charity shop worker with her own burdens, a tense bond forms between them. Their fragile connection challenges both of them to face the consequences of pain and failure, even as they cling to a glimmer of mercy. The story follows how this uneasy relationship exposes hidden hurts and tests the limits of forgiveness in a world that rewards neither.
Tyrannosaur is directed by Paddy Considine and built from a concept by Damien Dempsey. The 2011 release pairs a spare, intimate style with stark social realism, letting the performances carry the emotional weight. Its production emphasizes close in camera work and elemental sound to heighten intensity.
Cultural impact: The film's unflinching portrayal of violence and vulnerability resonated with critics and viewers who crave realism over sentimentality. It locates its drama in working class corners, using spare settings and a restrained palette to amplify character conflict. Peter Mullan and Olivia Colman deliver raw, controlling performances that leave a lasting impression. The tension between mercy and domination prompts conversations about power, gender, faith, and how communities respond to pain, making Tyrannosaur a touchstone for difficult, human stories.
Reception and themes: Critics praised the screenplay and acting for their blunt honesty, with the film offering a stark meditation on anger, abuse, trauma, and the elusive idea of redemption. The narrative refuses easy answers, presenting characters who are neither purely good nor wholly evil and showing how small acts of kindness can collide with harsh realities. The result is a film that sticks with you, inviting scrutiny of mercy, responsibility, and the lines we draw to survive.
Details
- Release Date
- October 07, 2011
- Runtime
- 1h 33m
- Rating
- NR
- User Ratings
- 491 votes
- Type
- Movie
- Genres
- Drama, Romance
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Studio
- Inflammable Films +4 more
- Box Office
- $676,111
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Peter Mullan
Joseph
Olivia Colman
Hannah
Eddie Marsan
James
Ned Dennehy
Tommy
Samuel Bottomley
Samuel
Paul Popplewell
Bod
Sally Carman
Marie
Sian Breckin
Kelly
Archie Lal
Post Office Cashier
Jag Sanghera
Gurav
Director: Paddy Considine
Written by: Damien Dempsey