'Stan & Ollie' Review - Reilly Redeemed in Silver Screen Classic

Those of you that saw (or rather, endured) 'Holmes & Watson' at the end of last year could almost be forgiven for dismissing 'Stan & Ollie', claiming that you are simply not ready to see John C Reilly back on the big screen so soon. However, that decision could just be your first mistake of the new year, as this film is quite frankly excellent.

I would start by reassuring you that you do not have to be fan of the original 20th century duo in order to enjoy this film - admittedly I spent a few afternoons as a pre-ten year old round my Grandmother's house watching old re-runs whilst the grown ups chatted - but I would not say this enhanced my experience all that much. The film is exceptionally accessible and it takes plenty of time at the start to introduce you to the characters and their famous double act.

We meet Mr Stanley Laurel and Mr Oliver Hardy on the set of one of their iconic films from the 1930s, during the height of their fame. The opening scene follows the pair as they wander through their Hollywood film set, greeting various people, discussing their financial hardships and many divorces along the way. Soon after we are given a bright and brief reenactment of a scene from their iconic 'Way Out West' picture, before flashing forward to a much darker, dreary looking 1950s where the majority of the film is set.

'Stan & Ollie' draws much of its inspiration from the 1993 written works 'Laurel & Hardy: the British Tours', and takes us through (you guessed it) their tour of the United Kingdom leading up to their eventual retirement. Both Coogan and Reilly do a fantastic job of portraying older more miserable versions of their earlier selves, really compounding the idea that their showbiz lives - particularly in Hardy's case - have taken their toll.

How true this rendition is to what actually happened remains to be seen, but it is fair to say Coogan and Reilly do a fantastic job of engaging the audience. Right from their reunion in a run down Newcastle Hotel they are constantly acting out 'bits' from their shows, much to the delight of all the characters around them. Their entrance into the hotel is particularly memorable and exceptionally funny, and definitely captures the essence of what the original comedies were all about.

The performances throughout from the two leads are fabulously moving. For some reason the relationship just works, and they successfully demonstrate a connection between the two characters that runs deep despite not being understood by those around them. The supporting cast are also good, adding just the right amount of comedic value to keep the film varied without stealing the limelight from the two centre stars.

In summary this film is a must-see; it's moving, it's inspiring and most importantly of all it's gracefully funny, and is everything you could want from a modern biopic. Both actors deserve all the nominations this film has been earning them over the last few weeks. Coogan is compelling and his performance is on point; Reilly is equally excellent and manages to deliver a redefining performance free from any hint of his signature style - if you had told me I'd be writing this so soon after his Dr Watson debacle I can safely say I would not have believed you!