Movie Review: Arthur

Russell Brand and Helen Mirren are the two stand-out characters in Arthur. Photo / Supplied

This modern-day remake of the 1981 classic romantic comedy Arthur should be well received by fans of Russell Brand; what fans of the original film starring Dudley Moore will make of it is another matter.

Brand is certainly no Moore, and yet his reputation for being a partying playboy (well, before he was tamed by Katy Perry) makes him a more than suitable candidate to play the role of Arthur, a wealthy, charming, childish drunk who amuses himself by spending money needlessly.

His performance is more restrained than usual, and if you enjoyed his appearance in Get Him to the Greek you can expect a similar routine here. The problem though is that if you're not a fan of Brand's verbose wackiness it's not quite so charming, just Brand playing at being Brand, rather than Brand playing Arthur.

A relatively faithful remake, Arthur must decide whether to accept his mother's (Geraldine James) ultimatum and marry Susan (Garner) - a woman he has nothing in common with and doesn't love - or be cut off from his inheritance. His decision is made more difficult when he falls for a quirky young New York tour guide, played by Greta Gerwig.

Helen Mirren, as the uptight and snobby Hobson - originally portrayed by John Gielgud - thankfully provides some substance as Arthur's nanny and only friend. Though, exasperated as we are by Arthur's behaviour, it's a stretch to believe this stern woman who has raised Arthur would allow him to live such a hedonistic lifestyle. Mirren and Brand do seem to have a genuine fondness for each other, and they stand out from a supporting cast lacking in memorable moments.

There's nothing like a recession to put a dampener on a film about a young man full of self pity and recklessly spending a fortune on silly gadgets, magnetic beds and cars from TV shows. But while we may not care about Arthur's slowly paced plight, or be moved by the sentimental ending, there are just enough fun moments for fans of Brand to enjoy the ride.

LOWDOWN

Stars: 2.5/5
Cast: Russell Brand, Helen Mirren, Jennifer Garner
Director: Jason Winer
Running time: 110 mins
Rating: PG (Violence and course language)
Verdict: Mildly amusing entertainment

- Time Out