billyslad
I'd never heard of or knew about this film. I came across it on Netflix as I was looking for British films to watch. If you like gentle British comedies/dramas similar to the Margery and Gladys film with June Brown and Penelope Keith, you'll love this. I'm not going to pull the film to pieces on improbabilities like some critics do, just watch it for the fun it is. There are many older British stalwarts of film and television in this and it's great to see them together here. I loved this film, though it will probably appeal to an older audience more than a younger one.
Reno Rangan
This film quite reminded me the Korean film I saw a few years ago called 'Grandma Gangsters'. That film was about a vacation, though money involves and here it was about the pension. That's a serious thing, could have been another 'I, Daniel Blake', but that's not how it goes. A very interesting and comical take on the pension crisis. What could the old people can do about it? Well, that's the point, they use an opportunity that comes their way to tackle the issue.I love films involving aged people. Not for amusement, but to see them struggle, emotionally I break down. Only those on the realistic portrayals. This title looked okay, but when I read the synopsis, I desperately wanted to see it. I knew it was a comedy, so I did not expect greater, except some good laughs. It did delivered, but I felt a few scenes were very unrealistic, even for a cinematic. Like the ending was not convincing enough. Though the rest of the film was fine.The story centres on the character Arthur played by Bernard Hill, which I first time noticed his character, particularly being in the lead since as Theodon, the King of Rohan from 'The Lord of the Rings'. So, like any film, it all begins with a simple introduction of his life and people around him. Unlike his friends, he is much able to do the stuffs at his age. Some way or the other, they are all depending on him, including his wife. Then one day he comes to know that he's not eligible anymore for his pension benefits. After thinking a lot, the heartbroken Arthur decides to take an extreme step. So begins his new adventure, and the following, his gang joins him.❝They may take our pensions, but they will never take our lives.❞Does it not sound cool! Brilliant performances by all. For a theme like this, the characters have to be fit which is a stereotype that this film breaks. But there were some sacrifices like the screenplay was altered to balance between the physically weak characters and the contents that's usually fast and furious and sometimes rough handling requires. It all worked though.A crime film, yet there's no violence or the action sequences. Involves some nervous scenes and like I said earlier, the end twist should have been better. Considering how everything was developed, that was not a bad ending at all, especially keeping in mind audience point of view of what they would be expecting. It was not entirely about the old guys. The cops have a small part, including one of them was old who leads the robbery case.At some point, it looked like 'Bonnie and Clyde', which was mentioned in the storyline as well. Like a cat-and-mouse game, the events in the tale stretches as much as it can possible, providing entertainment for us. The narration could have ended in very early, though the cops were not all Sherlocks. Everything in the interest of the film to develop in the right way with little silly and more funny.Not an average film or a classic. Made with a decent budget and the fine casting, I think the film is good to try once, but I suggest not to anticipate like any outstanding heist films you have seen in your life. Learn about the film, like its storyline and its characters. If you do that you will understand its limitations, except less fun while watching the film.7/10
Jim Seth
This was a film of gentle entertainment for people who like a cheery story and a pleasant viewing experience with a few laughs along the way.If you like gritty crime drams, horror movies or deep and meaningful drama this will not be the film for you. If you would enjoy seeing the best of our stalwart British Actors still adding value in their latter years with a gentle story with an uplifting ending you might fare better.A great soundtrack for baby- boomers. Look out for classic performances from the likes of Phil Davies who never fails to please.
Guy Jeffries
I went to see this at a senior screening (afternoon showing which includes tea and biscuits for our beloved old age pensioners) and some might think this is the target audience. Even though I could hear plenty of laughter from the ranks above, there's plenty of current affairs a lot of them could relate to, which wouldn't offend, but bring home some realities. The film includes pension pinching, poor care home staff and a failing health trust. The bowling club is under threat as is the bingo nights. And Bernard Hill, King of Rohan has had enough of the daylight robbery and turns to a life of crime himself; storming the West Country in his caravan, robbing building societies in Point Break fashion whilst sightseeing the stately homes. Good cast of British greats including Simon Callow and Mark Williams; it's Brad Moore's full-of- himself Stringer that adds some office like humour donning cowboy boots and a fake tan. It's got plenty of comedy and some laugh out loud moments but there's not enough to be considered a roaring comedy. It has a decent soundtrack suiting the theme giving the film an upbeat attitude. However that's about it, nothing more to say about the film but it is as the title suggests, it golden, good ol' British humour. Light hearted entertainment that's actually fun for all ages, especially if you like cucumber sandwiches and mobility scooters. Probably best for when it's released on TV or make the most of the tea and biscuits and grab a senior screening like myself for cheap seats. Running Time: 8 The Cast: 7 Performance: 7 Direction: 5 Story: 6 Script: 5 Creativity: 6 Soundtrack: 7 Job Description: 5 The Extra Bonus Point: 056% 6/10
