Review of 44 Inch Chest (2009) by Andy D — 01 Jun 2011

This got really mixed reviews when it first came out, and I can kind of see why, but I actually thought it was excellent.

Its from the same team that brought us 'Sexy Beast', and the cast is just as good this time, with all 5 of the English actors on show giving great performances (John Hurt's being my particular favourite!).

Essentially its a tale of one man's grief. Having spent the last 21 years of his life loving his wife "too much", Colin Diamond (Ray Winstone) is confronted by the horrid reality that she is leaving him for another, younger man. A French waiter to be precise. His mates 'kidnap' the culprit, and try to goad him into killing the villain.

What ensues is a voyage into Colin's psyche, as he confronts all his various insecurities and jealousies, and ultimately comes to his decision about what to do.

A heart-wrenching movie that may have been panned because you dont really dive fully into the despair with the main character, but you definitely can see and feel his pain, even if its done in a slightly comedic way (the film at times had me laughing out loud).

The dialogue and performances are fantastic, however, and I'd happily watch it again, and recommend it to anyone.