billyslad
I'd never heard of or knew about this film. I came across it on Netflix as I was looking for British films to watch. If you like gentle British comedies/dramas similar to the Margery and Gladys film with June Brown and Penelope Keith, you'll love this. I'm not going to pull the film to pieces on improbabilities like some critics do, just watch it for the fun it is. There are many older British stalwarts of film and television in this and it's great to see them together here. I loved this film, though it will probably appeal to an older audience more than a younger one.
jb-94900
It seems inevitable that the careers of well known, well respected actors finish with them having to accept "end of the pier" scripts such as this. Another reviewer has already pointed out many of the huge plot holes in this movie. The actors just about kept me watching but really it was no better than the awfully scripted comic spots in TV shows such as Rogue Traders and Martin Lewis' Money show etc., which I can no longer bear to watch. These actors deserve much better written scripts worthy of their proven acting abilities.
Reno Rangan
This film quite reminded me the Korean film I saw a few years ago called 'Grandma Gangsters'. That film was about a vacation, though money involves and here it was about the pension. That's a serious thing, could have been another 'I, Daniel Blake', but that's not how it goes. A very interesting and comical take on the pension crisis. What could the old people can do about it? Well, that's the point, they use an opportunity that comes their way to tackle the issue.I love films involving aged people. Not for amusement, but to see them struggle, emotionally I break down. Only those on the realistic portrayals. This title looked okay, but when I read the synopsis, I desperately wanted to see it. I knew it was a comedy, so I did not expect greater, except some good laughs. It did delivered, but I felt a few scenes were very unrealistic, even for a cinematic. Like the ending was not convincing enough. Though the rest of the film was fine.The story centres on the character Arthur played by Bernard Hill, which I first time noticed his character, particularly being in the lead since as Theodon, the King of Rohan from 'The Lord of the Rings'. So, like any film, it all begins with a simple introduction of his life and people around him. Unlike his friends, he is much able to do the stuffs at his age. Some way or the other, they are all depending on him, including his wife. Then one day he comes to know that he's not eligible anymore for his pension benefits. After thinking a lot, the heartbroken Arthur decides to take an extreme step. So begins his new adventure, and the following, his gang joins him.❝They may take our pensions, but they will never take our lives.❞Does it not sound cool! Brilliant performances by all. For a theme like this, the characters have to be fit which is a stereotype that this film breaks. But there were some sacrifices like the screenplay was altered to balance between the physically weak characters and the contents that's usually fast and furious and sometimes rough handling requires. It all worked though.A crime film, yet there's no violence or the action sequences. Involves some nervous scenes and like I said earlier, the end twist should have been better. Considering how everything was developed, that was not a bad ending at all, especially keeping in mind audience point of view of what they would be expecting. It was not entirely about the old guys. The cops have a small part, including one of them was old who leads the robbery case.At some point, it looked like 'Bonnie and Clyde', which was mentioned in the storyline as well. Like a cat-and-mouse game, the events in the tale stretches as much as it can possible, providing entertainment for us. The narration could have ended in very early, though the cops were not all Sherlocks. Everything in the interest of the film to develop in the right way with little silly and more funny.Not an average film or a classic. Made with a decent budget and the fine casting, I think the film is good to try once, but I suggest not to anticipate like any outstanding heist films you have seen in your life. Learn about the film, like its storyline and its characters. If you do that you will understand its limitations, except less fun while watching the film.7/10
adamtheactor-97677
Golden Years is a well crafted treat that will more than likely strike a chord with the older generation. It's certainly not a laugh a minute film,but a careful mix of drama and old fashioned fun. A film that has a great cast from the past and present. It one of those little gems that come along in British film once in a while. Credit to the writing team for producing something fresh that is built on great story telling, rather than non-stop special effects and action.Brad Moore is a scene stealer,an absolute joy to watch. His character (DC Stringer)thinks of himself as a media sensation, determined to upstage the older detective investigating the bank robberies at every given chance. Bernard Hill is fantastic as always and plays his character for real.John Miller who has very little to show in regards to previous film credits, directs with a natural tone and energy. He certainly knows how to stage the tender moments, and the outright slapstick in a near perfect fashion.The result is a very enjoyable film indeed.
