The Last Five Years, film review: Grating musical has some charm but the music isn't distinctive

(12A) Richard LaGravenese, 94 mins Starring: Anna Kendrick, Jeremy Jordan, Natalie Knepp, Nic Novicki, Alan Simpson, Meg Hudson

Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan in The Last Five Years (Press image)

This grating musical explores the break-up of a love affair between two young New Yorkers. Jamie (Jordan) is a smug, young novelist (compared at one stage to Jonathan Franzen) who hits success early. Cathy (Kendrick) is a struggling young actress.

Kendrick puts across her songs with toothsome charm and conviction but the flashback structure is cumbersome, the music isn't distinctive and Jamie is such a preening narcissist that you can't help but think Cathy is well rid of him.