I read the book and enjoyed it in parts. It gets so desperately bogged down in minute detail, references to inconsequence and with a distinct lack of action or plot. Yet it has sparkling characters, some great turns of phrase and can't be all bad if it has the reputation it enjoys. But armed with this knowledge, I knew any movie version would struggle. Yet the decision to focus rather more on the problems and complexities of being the actors in the film rather than the story itself was a good one. Coogan delivers, as does Bryden, and the cameo appearances reflect the 'look at me, aren't I clever for referring to that obscure battle or literary work?' habit of the book. It's usually a good sign when you feel disappointed at the appearance of the The End caption, isn't it? So often it's either a relief or simply bewildering -'is that it, then? No resolution or denouement for the plot, or are we being set up for a sequel?' But in this case, it could have rambled endlessly, like the book. Four blobs for a good attempt at the impossible.Read full review
Verified purchase: No
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Nice idea for a film and well acted and presented. Not sure exactly what the point of it was though! The story wasn't interesing and the only thing of merit I thought was Steve coogan taking the michael out of his sex life! Rob Brydon i love but he couldn't really shine in this movie. I guess if you like the two leads then it would be worth watching, but otherwise I'd choose something else for a more laugh out loud comedy. If you like the Office then this may also appeal to you. Check out my items!! ; )
Being a big fan of both Rob Brydon and Steve Coogan, buying this DVD appeared to be a no-brainer. Indeed the highlights of the film is the interplay between the two actors. Based on Laurence Sterne's masterpiece 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy' which has famously been called 'unfilm-able' - this is a complex re-telling of both the story and the 'making' of the film - in the style of BBC's 'Extras'. In my opinion, at least, the film does not play to it's strengths and although full of dark humour and literary jokes - does not reach the laugh quotient one would have hoped for. It does however feature a whos-who of British acting talent including Jeremy Northam, Ian Hart, Stephen Fry and Dylan Moran as well as a special cameo by Gillian Anderson. This DVD is presented in 16;9 Anamorphic widescreeen and features a 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound. Extras include Out-takes, Deleted scenes and trailers.Read full review
What was that all about? This film started nowhere meandered about a bit then ended up, god only knows where! Its a film about making a film but you get the feeling it didn't start out that way. It feels a though they started making the film of the story of Tristram Shandy but got bored half way through. So what you're left with is a somewhat indulgent mess. Coogan and Brydon are both very good in it and so are the many of the cameoes. But you ultimately just want it to finish or have a point which ever comes soonest. It does eventually finish but doesn't have a point. If you're expecting something like the excellent TV show 'The Trip' youill be sadly disapointed. Expect to see it back on ebay in the very near future.
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