So many polarised reviews here. You'll probably be put off watching, which is a real shame because it's definitely not as bad as people make out.
Firstly, this is uniquely British humour so it has to be seen in that context. And it's from 1991 when the 'politics' of what is, and isn't, acceptable to say were vastly different to now. But what isn't different (sadly) is that mothers like Ronnie still have to 'go on the rob' to feed their kids and end up on the wrong side of the law as a consequence. Anyway, enough politics but it's important to understand the context of Ronnie's background and life struggles in order to appreciate the woman for who and what she is - a downtrodden Kirkby girl who has more chances winning a boxing match than she does scoring a decent job in an office.
Most people agree that the story takes a bit of an, hmm, awkward turn when she goes to New York (London or even Dublin would have been more believable). And that's not helped by the inclusion from then on of Carroll Baker who is inexplicably quite poor in this - she came across quite amateurish as if she was a newbie relying on queue cards most of the time. I agree with others' opinions here that the film becomes somewhat mired from now on and it simply 'feels' too different in style from the earlier sequences. For instance, Ronnie's short time in the prison is an absolute highlight of the film; there's some cracking oneliners and the inclusion of the marvelous Angela Clarke (Margi and wetter/director Frank's sister). She's HILARIOUS and a superb actress in her own right - extremely natural and innately funny. Another star performance comes from Ronnie's best friend Mary, acted by Sharon Power. I don't know much about Sharon, but based on this performance I'm shocked she wasn't snapped up by one of the leading British soaps, such is her acting skill and presence. Her scene where she accosts and 'warns' Tony's girlfriend outside the court is both awesome and terrifying - that's top class acting right there.
This is definitely a female led and female fed movie, the male of the species takes second bill. And judging by the actions of the two main male characters, you can see why - unreliable, controlling and deadbeat are some words that come to mind. This was and is life in many so-called working class British societies. That's why this film can't be so easily dismissed. Margi and Frank know this life. They know how hard it was and still is to survive in such communities. And that's why films like this shouldn't be ignored or judged on a purely superficial level. There's a lot more going on here than meets the eye.
Incidentally, and somewhat curiously, Margi refers to the actor who played her father in this as being Pete Postlethwaite in her book "Now you see me...". Of course, it was Ken Hutchison. Funny how time can dull the memory - or maybe she took too many punches!
1 out of 2 found this helpful.
Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
