Bronson (2009)

I don’t watch a lot of serious films, but I was interested in this biopic of Britain’s most violent inmate. Michael Peterson wanted to make a name for himself, but didn’t know how, until he was sent to prison and decided the lifestyle suited him. He has since spent most of his life being moved from prison to prison, causing trouble, and writing books. Charles Bronson was the tough sounding name that Peterson adopted during his bareknuckle fighting days.

The film is almost a one man play with Tom Hardy (RocknRolla, Star Trek Nemesis), as Bronson, dominating the screen in every scene. It’s a great role for an actor as Hardy is given plenty of screen time and plenty of chances to explore his range. Hardy tackles it with gusto and he is matched by inventive production. The appeal of the story may be limited, but Hardy rocks.