‘Bronson’ DVD Review

Director: Nicholas Winding Refn

Starring: Tom Hardy, Matt King, Juliet Oldfield

Plot: The true story of Britain’s most violent, and expensive, prisoner as told from his point of view.

Review: When it was announced that Christopher Nolan was going to follow up ‘The Dark Knight’ with a third film, one question that quickly sprung up was how they would match Heath Ledger’s role as The Joker as Batman’s foe. If there’s one thing that proves that Tom Hardy is fit for the part it’s this movie.

Hardy takes on a complex role – playing Bronson straight, and Bronson inside his own mind relaying his tale in a stage setting. The role is a difficult one as it is, and these approaches make things more challenging. Everything about the performance is spell-binding. Hardy is charmingly terrifying as the unhinged and violent anti-hero, and strikes an powerful figure having reputedly spent five weeks doing 2500 press-ups a day in preparation for the role.

The director takes an artistic and highly creative approach, with Bronson addressing the camera directly in a darkened theatre. Not seeking to condemn nor celebrate the actions of this infamous figure, but spin a good tale. Whilst Hardy is indisputably owns the show, this movie will be an example for future film students looking for a fresh approach to otherwise rigid material.

Engaging and exciting, ‘Bronson’ must be seen, especially if you need convincing that he’s the man to bring Bane to life in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’.

NINE outta TEN