Harry Brown

By Kate Xian

This seemingly quiet U.K. import finally sees a wide release this long weekend and it is likely to surprise and exceed your expectations. Starring the epitome of the English Gentlemen, Michael Caine, as an ex-serviceman in a volatile socio-economic housing complex overrun by degenerates and youth violence who is on a crusade to find justice.

Though the film opens with hushed moments in the life of elderly title character Harry Brown, it soon becomes a roller coaster ride of action, conspiracy and Dirty Harryness. Recently widowed, and seeking revenge for the death of his best friend, Brown goes on a vigilante quest as the less than forceful police fail to do much. But bright-eyed morally sound D.I. Alice Frampton (Emily Mortimer) intervenes as the voice of reason with a realist perspective.

Newcomer director Daniel Barber shines in his first feature with a skill and instinct that even some more experienced directors miss the mark on. Beautifully and photographically framed, Harry Brown smartly and unabashedly creates a world of havoc, hate, and fear. Along with a gripping and eerily violent performance from Michael Caine, Barber pulls out the stops delving into the underbelly of a tumultuous British neighbourhood. A must see for action lovers and drama lovers alike, Harry Brown goes beyond the wham, bam, thank you ma'am of senseless violence and delivers a powerful film about justice that indeed entertains.

Release Date: May 21, 2010