Review of Withnail & I (1987) by Ashoka R — 27 Oct 2009

Very fun and famously entertaining. Packed full of great lines and moments. Obviously Grant's performance is the main element that makes this cult classic so enjoyable, a performance that is so memorable and powerful, his reputation as an actor almost entirely rests upon it.

The film's main mood is one of a hangover, the 60's are over and Withnail and I are not sure what to do next. Which is an interesting and original premise, given that most people would set a movie about baby-boomer hedonists IN the 60's when the party was still in full swing. It gives the film an underlying sense of sadness and loneliness, which is usually at the root of most over-indulgent and self-destructive behaviour, so I found this emotionally revealing and interesting.

Great soundtrack too, any film that features the main characters driving down the M25 in a Jag whilst "Voodoo Child" plays has to be cool.