Film Review: Arthur (2010)

Admittedly, I have only seen a small portion of the original version of this film. So I won't be able to make any educated sounded comparisons between the classic and this  newish film, which has Russell Brand as the main character.

Interestingly though, a little while ago, I heard that they were going to remake another classic film: Drop Dead Fred. Why is relevant?
Because the same actor that manages to instil his own almost manic energy and humour into this film, was listed as the man to play the title character. And while that news was slightly upsetting to me, as I thought that no one could even dare to think of maybe excelling past Rik Mayall's character, is sadly mistaking themselves.

But this remake, with my happy knowledge of not seeing the original film, I thought Mr Brand would be awesome as Arthur Bach. And I was right. Helen Mirren, as his nanny (there was a male butler in the original film), is as brilliant as ever and provides clever and witty remarks to keep the character, not really grounded, but tied to something to prevent him blowing away completely.

Luiz Guzman, Jennifer Garner, Nick Nolte and Geraldine James round out the supporting cast nicely, which is led by Greta Gerwig, who plays Arthur's love interest. Ms Gerwig is a relatively unknown actress, which helps and the chemistry between her Naomi and Arthur is quite real and sweet.

A very enjoyable film all round, and even though the supposed remake of Drop Dead Fred is going to be released in 2014 (which makes me think it won't be), this remake makes it seem that remakes in general, aren't bad.

Comments

  1. Film & TV Commentator30 August 2011 at 20:02

    The first quote comes from another film that Russell Brand is the main character:

    "Aldous Snow: What you did was very spiteful, but it was also very brave and very honest and I respect you for doing that. But the content of what you said has made me hate you. So there's a layer of respect, admittedly, for your truthfulness, but it's peppered with hate. Hateful respect."

    And the second comes from another excellent remake:
    "Lt. Templeton 'Faceman' Peck: Murdock, what did I tell you? You have to
    Lt. Templeton 'Faceman' Peck, Col. John 'Hannibal' Smith: *Catch* him, *after* you inject him.
    Capt. 'Howling Mad' Murdock: My bad."

    ReplyDelete

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