Review of Harry Brown (2009) by Matthew O — 10 Jul 2012

An elderly ex-serviceman and widower looks to avenge his best friend's murder by doling out his own form of justice.

Harry Brown opens with a truly striking first ten minutes, a giddy array of shaky mobile phone footage of a young English gang followed by an un-forgettable act of violence which will shock. Although this does not quite set the tone of the film it does gives a wake up call to youth city violence.

The film has a good supporting cast from its mainly young leads, a nasty group with the well structured police integration scene showing how far verbal violence can shake an audience with both fear and dread. Still this is the Michael Caine show. It is rare for Mr Caine to get leads now days, the actor is one of the most famous English actors and is truly wonderful in the title role.

What is truly wonderful is the creation of the Harry Brown character from a loving old guy next door, including a highlighted tender scene of a one to one with a friend in his local pub after the death of his daughter, to transformation to a re-activated old solider to a killing machine, as Harry Brown takes vengeance for the death of a friend, out on the local young gang.

Violent, and a bit too much Hollywood styled 'Death Wish' in places Harry Brown' is still a thrilling, tough, and thought provoking British thriller. Well directed and a great central performance from its lead.