In the first of our His 'n' Hers reviews, the JGs, Jon Garratt and Jannine Gammond, give their thoughts on the recent Michael Caine revenge flick, Harry Brown (to see our main review of the film, click here).
Jon: So you’re telling me a respected elderly gentleman takes on the social downfall of this country and wins?
Jannine: You follow Harry’s life so closely that you quickly become absorbed by him, although the fact he’s played by the legend that is Michael Caine may have a lot to do with it. Harry Brown is from London’s Elephant and Castle. Michael Caine is from London’s Elephant and Castle. So it’s perfect in more ways than one but above all his performance is truly believable.
Jon: It’s so horrifying to think that most of us live a stones throw from areas like this. It’s not just some American gangster film. We all know, have met or have had a run in with people like this.
Jannine: This is a snap shot of what some people’s lives are really like and how they are ruled by these pathetic gangs who have nothing better to do with their time except intimidate and terrorise old men.
Jon: If I knew my granddad was experiencing this type of gang abuse on a daily basis then I’d explode with rage. I think director Daniel Barber allows the audience to feel a heart crushing amount of affection toward Harry Brown and his best mate Len, as they seem alone and helpless to face the gang.
Jannine: It’s a real insight in to how these gangs operate, but hopefully this film might in some small way make these gang members think twice. I’m sure Harry Brown will become an iconic piece of cinema that we will hopefully be able to look back on when teenage hoody violence on our streets is a thing of the past.
Jon: Well, Gotham can keep its bat signal as Harry Brown showed that what he lacked in youth and a black rubber suit, he more than made up for with weaponry and vengeance. I can’t believe there hasn’t been more of a buzz about this film and I’m yet to talk to anyone who didn’t like it!
Jannine: Harry Brown vs. London’s hooded gangs equals a film that will spark debate and fury. Michael Caine and bloodshed… It ain’t just for the lads!
The JGs' Verdict and Percentage Watchability: GO WATCH IT! 83%
Reviewers: Jon Garratt and Jannine Gammond.
About The JGs:
Jon Garratt
I am 25 and I wrote my drama degree dissertation on the films Rocky IV and Rambo: First Blood Part II. I currently live in Solihull in the West Midlands. I am a huge James Bond fan! I love playing and watching football and I absolutely love watching all sorts of films. I also love comedy, especially the comedy genius that is Ricky Gervais.
Favourite Films: When Saturday Comes, any of the Rocky films, Gladiator, Bond films. The Hangover, The Damned United, Any Given Sunday.
Favourite Actors: Christian Bale, Sylvester Stallone, Daniel Craig, Hugh Jackman, Jim Carrey, Will Ferrell, Michael Sheen, Jennifer Aniston.
Last film I loved: The Hangover
Jannine Gammond
I am 23 and I am currently doing drama teacher training in Birmingham. I am originally from Newport in South Wales. I wrote my drama dissertation on the musical West Side Story. People say I have the most random film collection but I have such a varied taste.
Favourite films: Amelie, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Papillon, Lord of the Flies, anything Tim Burton.
Favourite Actors: Sir Anthony Hopkins, Albert Finney, Brian Cox, Sir Ian McKellen, Audrey Tautou, Julie Walters.
Last film I loved: The Wrestler