Sir Michael Caine is a much loved British institution. From Alfie Elkins in ALFIE to Alfred Pennyworth in THE DARK KNIGHT, the man has practically dripped cool. In fact, I believe the knighthood was bestowed upon him in recognition of him being the coolest Englishman alive. Sure, he’s made a couple of stinkers (see BULLSEYE!), but they’re far outweighed by his iconic roles (see the original GET CARTER). In recent years however, he’s been increasingly playing supporting roles. Now he’s made a film where he steps out of the supporting shadows to take the lead once again, possibly for the last time.
Caine plays the titular character in HARRY BROWN and I’m pretty damn excited with the thought! Harry Brown is a pensioner that lives in a flat in one of the rougher areas of London. When his best friend is murdered by the gangs that rove the estate, Harry decides to serve up some justice in a way the police can’t. Of course, the fact that Harry is an ex-Marine bodes well for his chances of cleaning up the estate and cracking some skulls.
Yes, what we have to look forward to is Michael Caine’s DEATH WISH. And that’s a thought that fills me with glee. Michael Caine wandering around London with a gun and an attitude? That’s a premise that can surely only increase Caine’s cool-points and hopefully prove to be a fitting swan-song to his days in the leading role. I’m hoping there’s going to be lots of cool one-liners uttered in Caine’s unmistakable Cockney accent as he dispatches bad guys in ultra slow-mo. I’m expecting there to be a muted palette and lots of grain to help with the gritty feel. My only worry is that the movie won’t be able to live up to the expectations I’m placing upon it!
HARRY BROWN is in cinemas from 11 November and I can’t wait. You can visit the disappointingly bare official website here – from which there is a link to get a free preview ticket via SeeFilmFirst.
