Fried: A Brutal, Darkly Comic Dive into London's Underbelly

Fried by Richard Goss

Fried is a raw and unapologetic descent into the underbelly of London's working-class struggles, a psychological thriller infused with dark humor and nihilistic undertones. Created by Welsh actor writer Richard Goss, this indie series is a bold critique of poverty, mental illness, and addiction, presenting a brutally honest reflection of minimum wage life in the city.

Following the intertwining lives of a psychotic call center worker and a depressed waiter, Fried blurs the lines between reality and madness. The narrative unfolds as their existence spirals out of control, leading to an increasingly chaotic and violent reality that mirrors the grim existential crises explored in works like Withnail & I, Filth, American Psycho, and In Bruges. Goss, drawing inspiration from literary classics such as Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment and Orwell’s Down and Out in Paris and London, crafts a world where despair and dark wit collide with unsettling intensity.

What makes Fried particularly compelling is its commitment to authenticity. Goss self-financed the production through years of savings from his acting jobs, a testament to his dedication to telling this story on his own terms. His background in high-profile projects for Netflix, Lionsgate, and Warner Brothers is evident in the film’s sharp execution, despite its indie roots. The series has already garnered critical acclaim, winning 38 film awards worldwide, further proving its ability to resonate with audiences and critics alike.

The film industry often leans into period dramas or gangster epics, but Fried offers something different. A raw, dialogue heavy meditation on disenfranchisement and social decay. Goss’ direction embraces the grotesque, the absurd, and the tragic in equal measure, crafting a world that is as disturbing as it is darkly comical.

Jake McDaid delivers an amazing performance as "Dave Turral," bringing an intense and unforgettable presence to the film. His portrayal adds another layer of rawness to Fried, complementing Goss’ fearless storytelling. Richard Goss himself is equally raw, further cementing the film’s unfiltered and gripping nature.

Visually and narratively, Fried is a gripping experience. It thrives on its gritty cinematography and unrelenting tone, bringing to life the bleak yet fascinating landscape of its characters’ psyches. While its relentless nihilism may not be for everyone, those who appreciate unfiltered storytelling and existential satire will find Fried to be a deeply engaging watch.

With an aesthetic reminiscent of Trainspotting and Waiting for Godot, Fried cements itself as a fearless and provocative entry into modern British indie cinema. Goss has successfully crafted a project that is both cathartic and entertaining, proving that films of this nature, though rare, still have a vital place in contemporary storytelling.

Verdict: A brutal yet darkly humorous exploration of society’s forgotten corners, Fried is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and unflinching social commentary. Richard Goss has delivered an uncompromising vision that lingers long after the credits roll.