Bronson: DVD Review

Bronson: DVD Review

Bronson

Rating: R18
Released by Madman
Described on the cover as A Clockwork Orange for the 21st Century, this is an unforgiving biographical pic of the UK's most notorious criminal, Charles Bronson.

Played with a wonderful theatrical feel by Tom Hardy, this takes a look back at what shaped the man behind bars - and how one of the UK's most vicious criminals was created.

The story is told in a rather unusual and visually captivating way - in front of an audience, Bronson tells us he always wanted to be famous; with his bald head, polished dome and large handlebar moustache, he cuts a comical figure; almost clown-like in his mannerisms and speech - but heaven help you if you mock him - because there's also an explosion of violence around the corner.

And it's merely minutes before the fighting begins; Refn cuts directly back and forth from Bronson's speech on the stage to his taking on a series of guards and battering them black and blue.

It's jail where Bronson blooms gleefully cementing his title as a violent uncontrolled offender - and it's here the film becomes a little confrontational as it shows there's no hope of reform for this character.

However, it succeeds, thanks to the stunning and towering performance from Hardy himself; while Bronson's never going to be a likeable character, it's Hardy's performance which makes him so compelling to watch.

There's some great visual touches and an extension of the performance of a clown sees Bronson at his peak - Hardy's mesmerizing turn never sees you off guard; you're 100% sure of his propensity for explosive violence but yet you can't help but watch this portrayal.

Extras: Teaser trailers, commentary and interview with director Nicolas Winding Refn

Rating: 7/10