Review of Bronson (2009) by John C — 12 Aug 2012
If there's one thing we Brits are good at it's making dark, gritty and violent people or places worth watching. Even charming at times.
Bronson is a biopic about the notorious life of Michael Peterson, renowned worst prisoner in the history of the United Kingdom, brought to startling life by Tom Hardy (Inception).
A man without ambition and a senseless love for violence, finds himself imprisoned, but when he quickly finds prison to be a luxury - an incentive to his violence even - the Law attempts in vain to "correct" him with any means necessary.
Tom Hardy's performance is magnetic, the actor melting completely into a calculating yet animalistic persona. The film is narratively structured around Peterson speaking on stage, telling us his story, and throughout there remains an electricity of uncertainty; the man's physical presence and intense violence clashing with his frequently docile behaviour.
The film hits a high (or low) point when Peterson finds himself condemned to a mental hospital, to see the uncontrolled rage the man has, barely contained under an asylum's medication show's Hardy's dedication. It may lose some momentum after this scenario, but it maintains its pacing and its mood, keeping you interested.
If you like A Clockwork Orange, Bronson is the movie for you; it is physically violent and mentally unnerving, yet expertly portrayed.
This review of Bronson (2009) was written by John C on 12 Aug 2012.
Bronson has generally received positive reviews.
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