Director: Jon S. Baird
Screenplay: Jeff Pope
Starring: Steve Coogan, John C. Reilly, Shirley Henderson, Danny Huston, Nina Arianda, Rufus Jones
Running Time: 97 minutes
Genre: Comedy, drama, biography
It's 1953, sixteen years after legendary comedy double act Stan Laurel (Coogan) and Oliver Hardy (Reilly) were at the height of their fame. In the hopes of raising backing for a comeback film that Laurel is writing, based around Robin Hood, the estranged duo reunite for a grueling tour of Britain. However, the pressures of the tour soon start to put strain on Laurel and Hardy's relationship and Hardy's increasingly fragile health.
This is a touching, gentle film that pays an affectionate tribute to the genius of Laurel and Hardy. It is also very funny. Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly (acting under heavy make-up) are pitch perfect as Laurel and Hardy, nailing their physical comedy style, as well as their appearance and mannerisms. Shirley Henderson is good as Hardy's wife, Lucille, and Nina Arianda is hilarious as Laurel's blunt but loving wife Ida. It's a film about friendship, comedy and the value of art. It's great not only for fans of Laurel and Hardy, but also anyone interested in the world of show business. A refreshingly sincere and affectionate film, this is a bittersweet tribute to a bygone era.
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