'Mindhorn' Review
08:45
Directed by Sean Foley
Starring: Julian Barratt, Simon Farnaby, Essie Davis, Steve Coogan.
After the brilliant success of Free Fire I was anxious to see what kind of British comedy film would come next, and after hearing some good things about Julian Barratt's new film Mindhorn I decided to check it out, not expecting anything massively amazing but still hoping for a fun time. And I'm glad to say it was better than expected.
So, Bruce Mindhorn is a 90's television super cop who is given the power to see the 'truth' in the criminals he fights and... oh wait that's the premise of the TV show that the actor Richard Thorncroft (Barratt) stars in, until 25 years later the washed up actor is having a troubling career. Going bald and doing only orthopaedic sock adverts, Thorncroft is called back into his character of Mindhorn when the police of the Isle of Man face a criminal who will only speak to the character. Seeing this as a way to get his career back on track, Thorncroft accepts the job, that lands with some hilarious consequences.
Firstly, Julian Barratt is amazing as Thorncroft/Mindhorn - its clear that, with his writing of the screenplay in tow, he's been able to craft a perfect spoof of a character which he plays wonderfully. He's hilarious and charismatic, and knows how to compose the sense of humour that's contained in the film. Clive (Farnaby) is also stupidly funny, with some great back and fourth between the two characters. Some of the other characters are slightly lacking in personality and humour which pulls the film down a bit, but the real spotlight is on Barratt which I think has been done great.
The plot does come across quite predictable at times, and quite generic with its twist and turns. The humour does stagnate a little towards the third act, but not at all uninteresting. What I have to appreciate in particular is the style of the film. The costumes, cinematography and setting of the Isle of Man shows that a lot of thought has been put into the making, and this really compliments the spoof that this film is.
Granted, it would have been nice to see some more clever things done with the narrative but I can't push this film down too much. It was a nice surprise and was highly enjoyable, even Thorncroft's hit single 'You can't Handcuff the Wind' song is an absolute treat to hear at the end of the credits, so stick around after. Barratt should be pleased with himself, with executive producer Ridley Scott of all people, they've made a well done parody that hits the right notes, and creates a delightfully entertaining character.
The Good
- Barratt's Thorncroft/Mindhorn
- Brilliant style
- Some great laughs
- A fun and entertaining time
The Bad
- Some bland characters and acting
- Predictable at times
- Narrative wasn't so clever at times
7/10
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