S.J. Clarkson's adaptation of Nigel Slater's coming-of-age tale is likely more compelling if you have any idea who Slater is. (He's a well-known British food writer and TV personality.) Regardless, this dramedy, set in the late 1960s, has much universal charm, as the motherless young Nigel (Oscar Kennedy; as a teen, Freddie Highmore) spars with his dad's new housekeeper (Helena Bonham Carter); expands his palate beyond "basic British"; and dreams of a life beyond the provinces. Small scale, with good performances and plenty of Dusty Springfield tunes. Starts Fri., Oct. 21. Oaks
