Cloud Cuckoo Land

‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ is a 2004 drama film, produced by Chris Bradley and Terry Bennell, written and directed by Matt Dickinson. The film tells the story of a handicapped man who leaves the comfort of his home in order to seek a ruined aircraft, while he finds love and adventure along the way.

The film stars Steve Varden as Sandy, a man who is disabled because of cerebral palsy. Before his mother dies in a plane crash, she gives birth to Sandy. Since then, Sandy has grown up with his grandfather, Victor (Derek Jacobi), who outfits aircrafts. Victor’s fondness for aircraft repair and restoration leads the young man to acquire his grandfather’s passion for it. Victor also brings Sandy along on his field trips for searching and excavating World War II aircraft. Meanwhile, a media tycoon of Toronto is offering a cash prize worth E50,000 to anyone who can search for a wrecked plane which crashed somewhere in a district of England during the war. When Sandy hears about the news, he becomes eager to find it. Afterwards, his ailing grandfather is diagnosed with cancer and is about to die. In spite of this heavy burden, Sandy continues his mission of hunting for the lost plane, and ignores all the sceptics about his solo hunting. While Sandy is on his way pursuing the exciting and profitable adventure, he meets a charming café worker, Lucy (Boo Pearce), who works in one of the hangouts in the Lake District. Subsequently, the two develop feelings for each other. Sandy and Lucy’s blossoming relationship is considerately and patiently drawn. He gradually obtains Lucy’s trust through his thoughtfulness and tender love. As Sandy searches for the valuable wartime aircraft in the Lake District, he also finds the woman who will love him dearly.

One may think that the idea of a disabled person flying a plane and making a woman fall in love with him is impossible. However, ‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ shows a physically disabled man doing things he should not be able to do. It is an engaging and amazing story that will truly inspire people who are in the same situation. In fact, Varden is a cerebral palsy victim; yet, he does not want pity. Actually, he does his own stunts in the film and helps the filmmakers create the script for this drama. Varden’s remarkable contribution in using his talent, despite his physical condition, is outstandingly and effectively done in portraying a character that is likeable, yet stubborn. Aside from Varden’s noteworthy performance, the cinematography is remarkable. The director sees to it that Varden’s stunts are clearly captured and makes sure that the scenes will not appear like a pictorial. Moreover, Dickinson’s direction lies more in his aggressiveness to film a unique story. Overall, ‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ is a movie that is hard to ignore because of the compelling message and the courage of the moviemakers to portray an unusual story about disability with so much discretion and sympathy. If you are interested in films, how about a custom usb stick to show off your passion?