However, it does end up a bit messy in the third act, then tries to redeem itself with a twist that isn’t quite executed well enough. From that point onwards, the structure seems to fall apart and its shock after shock that leaves you walking away from the film trying to work out if any of it was really necessary. Not all of the surreal scenes work either. Although funny, Jim Broadbent’s role seems superfluous as did the car sing-a-long.
That said, I really did enjoy the film. It balances the funny and the harrowing well and at only 97 minutes, it never overstays its welcome. Eddie Marsan as Bruce’s best pal Bladesey and Shirley Henderson as his wife Bunty are brilliant. Imogen Poots and Jamie Bell also hold their own as his rival colleagues. If you’re from Edinburgh, you’ll also get all the extra references that may pass over other audiences’ heads and it’s exciting to see your hometown on screen – even if it makes us look awful. It’s also a nice change to see a film made specifically for a Scottish audience instead of catering to an international market. Because of this, and also the pretty disturbing nature of the film, it may never receive American distribution which really is a shame as McAvoy deserves at least a nomination for his work.
Overall, it may not be perfect, but for wee Jamesy boy alone it’s worth it.
Beth Johnston
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