[Review] Arthur - 27th April 2011

★

★

★

★ - Leaves A Lot To Be Desired [For rating system, see information page at top of blog]

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Release Date: 22nd April 2011
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Director: Jason Winer
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Writer: Steve Gordon (Story) - Peter Baynham (Screenplay)
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Cast: Russell Brand - Helen Mirren - Jennifer Garner - Greta Gerwig

Review

Arthur was an interesting film - Though it had a very recognizable cast, the film did not have a very effective advertising campaign and many people who I discussed it with had not heard of it, let alone wanted to see it! 

In a way I was no exception, I knew about the film, and though I could guess at its genre and type of narrative simply from Russell Brand's previous films, I knew little about the plot - therefore, I was slightly surprised upon viewing the finished product!

'Arthur' is about a Billionaire and his relationships with the people around him. He is a heavy drinker but a very generous, kind person.  The character of Arthur, played by Brand, is not portrayed that differently to the standard 'drink & drug' fueled cliche he usually plays. This time however the performance has a much more innocent feel to it, and suggests a realization that he is just a child at heart. 

Brand's performance is solid, you instantly like the character - he provides a very 'loveable' dimension to Arthur that is new to his acting arsenal. The character does not differ greatly from other roles he has played, and shows, again, his ability to play a 'drunken' eccentric very effectively and comically – however, I feel we are at the point where I would like to see Brand try something different, otherwise he leaves himself vulnerable to type-casting. 

Supporting roles from Helen Mirren, Jennifer Garner and Greta Gerwig are also effective. Helen Mirren, in particular, plays a very 'uptight', tense role that contrasts perfectly with the character of Arthur, providing another source of comedy - The performances in this film were positive and safe. There was adequate screen chemistry throughout,- a vital factor in this type of comedy. 

I did feel, however, that there was something lacking in the narrative. The plot was predictable and in parts seemed to have unnecessary scenes. It also moved along at quite a slow pace, and whilst comical, did not contain material that had you 'holding your sides'! Competition in the comedy genre now is so fierce that this type of film has to be very unique and unfortunately, 'Arthur' does not possess this ‘not to be missed’ quality. 

'Arthur' - A happy, almost delightful film in many ways  (courtesy of Brand's character) that is easy to watch. Unfortunately, it lacks a strong narrative that simply was not funny enough.