Monday, 5 July 2010

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 

No comments:

Post a Comment

Very latest post

Black Friday tech gift guide 2024

Black Friday tech gift guide 2024 With Black Friday sales and Christmas 2024 on the way, many will be looking at tech gifts for friends and ...