Review of 44 Inch Chest (2009) by Brett W — 19 Nov 2010

A very mis-understood film, about the dark depths and nightmarish realm that is a tortured and betrayed mans mind.

Winstone, McShane, Hurt, Wilkinson and Dillane are all fabulous; seriously, they are all on top-form. Hurt is a positively hilarious/evil SOB, and proves to be one of the stand out characters. McShane is also fantastic, playing his role with massive charisma and a large sum of wit.

Although the story may seem very simple and cliche at a glance, mutliple viewings really show the true side and deep meanings of the film. But to tell you these 'twists' and 'meanings' would surely spoil your viewing. They need to be discovered for yourself.

One memorable scene comes when Hurts character is telling the story of 'Sampson and Delila' (forgive the spelling). The script is very funny at this point, bringing both wit and 'language humour' to the table. But when you compare this famous Bible story wih 44 Inch Chests story, there's something bitterly ironic about it.

However, no film is perfect and this one does have it's flaws. At times it's un-evenly paced and drags slightly, but things easily pick up after a while. You definetly won't be bored for long.

One final thing I must say is that the film has a great soundtrack. It's both stirring and beautiful, mixing the right amount of tension with sadness. The track playing over the final scene particularly highlights the heart-break and confusion of the entire situation.

I wrote this off as 'just another Winstone gangster film'. How wrong I was. Very witty, funny, thought-provoking, tense, and in a certain sense.. moving. Don't expect too appreciate it on your first viewing however.