bob the moo
I don't really follow celebrity culture, and just in case you think that means I'm far too highbrow to do so, I also am pretty bad at following the other end of that spectrum either. I mention this because Russell Brand is in both of those in some ways, and in both areas I am aware of him but little more than that – for some reason I don't care for him when I have seen him, but at the same time I would struggle to specifically tell you what I have seen him in. This film of course got more attention due to his involvement, and it was this publicity that drew me to watch the film, even if it was the message that I actually wanted to hear.In terms of that message, it is perfectly worthy and valid, and, as Brand says at the start of the film – really nothing you have not heard before. Problem with that sentence is that it is only part of the truth, because not only will you have heard all of this before, but predominately you will have heard it all done better too. Brand seems to have been identified as the key problem with the film, but for me the whole approach and tone of the film is off – okay it is off because it is modeled around the Brand brand (if you will) but this is not a solo project, there are other people who should have evened this out, not least of which is Winterbottom. The issue with the film is evident from the very start, because no matter its other faults, the film is at least consistent across its running time. It appears to be aimed at 'the people', or at least the perception of who 'the people' are. What this means in reality is that we have the 'geezer' factor turned up to 11, everything is a little bit cheeky, and things are played out in very simple terms, and with a very basic structure and approach.For some maybe this will win you over, but personally I found it grating and patronizing – and not just Brand. To focus on the content (as we should), the film has this great point, but it makes it far too simply; getting school children to yell out like the film is a panto doesn't work, and the film not having access to people beyond security guards also doesn't work. Many other devices and specifics fall flat, and the fact we have heard this all before does tend to come across even louder – and the fact it isn't working just highlights how much better others have covered the same material, whether in documentaries or in satirical news shows. This is my fundamental problem with the film – that it doesn't make its case at all well; however there is no point in me pretending that Brand himself is not a big part of this. His style and manner here seems so insincere and patronizing. His efforts to 'speak to the people' seem too labored, and his many throwaway sentences attempting to charm just grated on me; he does appear to have good intentions, but he overplays the act of 'I'm just a simple bloke me, just a local boy like yourself mate' – for example saying he doesn't know anything about Libor when he so clearly does, as if angry ignorance is something he thinks will appeal to those watching (which maybe is true, but it still speaks to his views on the 99% when he thinks such a character is one we will appreciate). To be fair, in the film people do seem to respond to this approach, so he may well be a matter of taste.Ultimately the film is Brand and it is hard to separate them. As such it is a film with a mostly worthy message and intent, but done in an insincere and messy fashion which seems to be trying to ingratiate itself to the populace but actually just comes off as an insincere act which at best is a bit grating, and at worst is patronizing and condescending.
j-nicholson1
I spotted this on Amazon Prime video and decided to take a look, I've never been a huge fan of Russell Brand and was curious about the content.I found this documentary to be thought provoking and well worth watching. Russell Brand has gained my respect because I believe he is, in his own inimitable style, trying to open people's eyes to the gross inequalities of life in Britain today. I felt compelled to write this review having seen a couple of negative comments about looting, nobody bothered to mention the bankers? This documentary explains in simple terms about the economic crisis and the application of austerity measures to the detriment of those least able to afford it and it does it in a way that keeps you watching to the very end. I do not think It will ever change the opinions of those with closed minds, but for anyone else it should at least make you think, I thoroughly recommend watching this documentary.
David Phil
Okay first off the editing of this video is good.....That's about itCons:1) Dosen't talk about actual facts, but opinions2) Calls free market economist like Milton fringe economists, while he is considered the greatest economist in the 20th century3) Dosen't provide any real substance besidesI'm right and your wrong 4) He brings up point about economics that aren't correct at all and don't have any supporting references5) Uses the fair policy through-out the doc and at one point talks to children about fairness6) Bias against the Conservatives and seems to miss any Labour failures in the UKOverall this is a good documentary if you want to go down to the lowest common denominator when it comes to actual substance, he uses his celebrity to push for what he wants and acts like he dosen't need to prove any of his facts with actual references.Overall 2/102 points for good editing.
charlesmowood
Entertaining film concerning some of the inequalities present in the UK. Brand takes on the banking policies that caused the 2008 crisis. Calling for bankers for their risky behavior to pay the price rather than the most vulnerable through austerity cuts.Brand's delivery is typical of his comedic works lively with plenty light-hearted moments despite the largely serious content presented such as: disabled people losing their benefits and council estates being privatized by UK councils. Overall, those interested in an alternative to current system of governance will find this film a breath of fresh air and interesting insight into the future of our society.
