Bronson (2008)

Director: Nicolas Winding Refn

Stars: Tom Hardy, Kelly Adams, Luing Andrews
Runtime: 92 minutes

Synopsis: A young man who was sentenced to seven years in prison for robbing a post office ends up spending three decades in solitary confinement. During this time, his own personality is supplanted by his alter-ego, Charles Bronson.

Performances: 10/10
Screenplay: 9/10
Editing: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Entertainment Factor: 9/10

Verdict:

(+) Fascinating character exploration of a man with near animalistic behavioral patterns who views violence as an art form and who would go to extreme lengths to make a name for himself. The world is his stage, and he will stop at nothing to be the center of attention.

(+) Tom Hardy's best and most entertaining performance to date by a mile. Seriously, his portrayal of Charles Bronson (or Michael Peterson) deserves all the praise in the world.

(+) Nicolas Winding Refn is nowadays known for his style over substance approach to filmmaking. This is a rare instance in which he excels in both.

(+) The music perfectly complements the unique tone of the movie as well as the colorful personality of its protagonist.

(+) Perfectly paced. Not a single second feels wasted and the movie never drags.

FINAL GRADE: 9/10