Film Review: Arthur

Have you ever placed a cat on an office chair and spun it around for a good 60 seconds to see what would happen? Not that I have, but what you would witness is a splayed cat, feebly punching one paw into the air in an attempt to gain traction with a rapidly spinning world.

Watching this punch-drunk furbag cling desperately to such a predicament is the closest thing I could arrive at when venturing to describe Russell Brand’s acting style. However, given his childish, rambling awkwardness, in the title role of Arthur, Brand actually works surprisingly well.

Arthur Bach is an alcoholic, millionaire, playboy man-child who receives an ultimatum from his cold and elitist mother; willingly accept her arranged marriage to the boring and career-obsessed Susan (Jennifer Garner) or be cut off forever!

Unprepared for a life of squalor, Arthur reluctantly agrees, until he meets the enchanting and free-spirited Naomi (Greta Gerwig). Affronted by the painful realisation all men must face – that securing a beautiful, vivacious woman will inevitably result in a forever empty wallet – Arthur must decide what makes him truly happy.

The understated Helen Mirren is simply superb as Arthur’s dry-witted chaperone, Hobson. And while 33 years my senior, I can honestly say that this accomplished screen vixen still has more sex appeal (and male admirers) at 65 than Pippa Middleton’s bot-bot.

The supporting cast of Geraldine James, Garner and Gerwig also give playfully entertaining performances. However, it has to be said that Nick Nolte should most definitely not be acting in films anymore. Or be on tv. Or host infomercials. Or even guest star in government department induction training videos. Ever.

Arthur is a light-hearted journey of one mans need to grow up fast. While not a total laugh-fest, it still supplied an overall entertaining and feel good viewing experience.

3 STARS