Noel Clarke writes, directs and stars in this sequel to the impressively melodramatic Kidulthood, and he works hard to show the same, slightly older teenage gangs of London in as desperately depressing terms. They are victims of society and are determined to make society a victim as well.

At the conclusion of Kidulthood, Sam (Clarke) is sentenced to six years for the murder of 15-year-old Trife. At the beginning of Adulthood, he comes out of jail. Having survived an attack by Trife's gangster uncle, he is determined to go straight but is made aware that vengeance is certain.

A criminal outfit that includes Trife's old associate Jay is behind a fresh attempt to kill him. His sad mother (Adjoa Andoh) disowns him and only a druggie girl (Scarlett Alice Johnson) gives him succour.

The film was, apparently mistakenly, shown to the press with subtitles. But they were gratefully received, since its patois-like dialogue is often incomprehensible. It is undeniably well acted, especially by Clarke, Andoh and Johnson, and tells at least part of the truth. But Sam's redemption seems implausible and the moralistic drama too obvious.

It's the sort of film which will make you walk hastily to the other side of the street when you see a group of youths in your way. And since it reflects the teenage gang violence recently in the headlines, Adulthood would seem to encourage every hidden fear we have without suggesting any comfortable answers.