Dead Man's Shoes (2004) plus trailer

A gritty, British revenge thriller with a towering performance from Paddy Considine, who single handedly carries the film with an astounding physical and an emotional performance. The film centres around Richard, a military man returning to his hometown in an unnamed Midlands suburban village. He wanders around the town to seek revenge on the tormentors who bullied his mentally challenged brother Anthony (played with great subtly and reserved interpretation by Tony Kebbell). When he comes across one of the local bullies, they soon realise their time is up, as Richard has nothing but death in his eyes.

With such an exceptionally simple concept comes a very powerful and moving tale of one brother who will do anything to wreak vengeance and make the bullies pay for the abuse they put his brother through. From the first initial confrontation in the pub when he spots Herbie (one of the gang members) the controlled turn of anger from Considine is both shocking and gripping at the same time. A complete composure which switches at a drop of a hat. It is an electrifying and absorbing performance which is only comparable to such an actor as say De Niro.

What gives this film a different slant on the whole revenge genre is that it is almost played out like a horror film (a slasher if you will). Richard incorporates many implements of a horror film. Stalk and slash comes to mind, as he breaks into their houses and leaves his mark on them. Though it is probably the use of the old military gas mask which is put to such great affect, where Richard appears on the front door step to frighten the persecutors. What's more, it is the way in which he has complete power over them and has the ability to show them he has no fear. And like a horror film, they are all picked off one by one...

The main reason to see this, is the performance from Considine who channels a raw energy to exhibit a controlled psycho to such touching and poignant moments when he is alone with his brother. Unfortunately some of the other actors are not as strong so the performances seem a little bit uneven. Tonality of the film is spot on though. It's a very sombre affair with a surprising amount of light humour thrown in too.

Overall, a surprisingly calm and tranquil ending with a predictable outcome but nevertheless an enjoyable journey. An affecting performance with a hybrid of genres which melded well together and never looked forced or added as an afterthought. A well written script by director (Shane Meadows) and star (Considine) and fully deserving a place in anyone's movie collection.

Acting 4/5

Technical Merit 4/5

Narrative 4/5

Entertainment 5/5

17/20