review by Harlequin Pro
Bronson 2009
Watched Jul 31, 2012
Harlequin’s review:
Recommended to me by Letterboxd member Ron.
My very first thought after watching about 45 minutes of the film: wouldn't it be so much easier to just shoot him in the head. Clean shot, right between the eyes.
Later on I was convinced that, as he phrases it so beautifully himself, "ripping his head off, and shoving it up his own arse" would be a much more satisfying alternative.
But for some strange reason, I ended up being slightly fascinated instead, and overcame my initial bloodlust and general annoyance.
Don't get me wrong, I still want this guy to burn. Yet, Tom Hardy did a great job playing totally insane.
I'm not sure I can get over the weirdness of the film, but I'd rather have had it this way, than yet another dead serious prison film, and yawn.
Well it sounds like you at least liked it. From what I'm told Hardy's performance was a pretty accurate portrayal.
@Ron. That's just scary.
Yes I did end up liking it. It's strange how the film won me over, because I had already rated it 1 star before it really started. I am not very patient ;)
@John. You're right, they do look very similar. What a creep.
@Harlequin It worked for me because I found the whole thing hilarious. This film is a comedy in my book, but it's been said I have a twisted sense of humor.
@Ron. I did laugh every now and then. Especially in the beginning. But I guess I got used to his "personality" and took it a little more serious after a while.
Definitely for me a black comedy. Refn is a superb director and Hardy pulls off the madness to a T. His expressions are priceless.
@Nate Exactly!