‘Muscle’ - new Gerard Johnson film

[DaveCinzano]

Only became aware that this was about very recently, even though it had its premiere in the Autumn. I think it may have been due for wider release around now but obvs that's on hold because COVID-19.

Set against a backdrop of toxic masculinity and gym culture the trailer doesn't give a lot away but coming from Johnson (Tony, Hyena) I have high hopes.

Stars Cavan Clerkin (Sharon Horgan's hopeless boyfriend in Pulling) and Craig Fairbrass (EastEnders alum turned low budget Brit action movie journeyman finally getting some decent notices). Looks visually impressive. Is scored by the director's brother Matt Johnson.

Muscle (2019) ⭐ 6.0 | Thriller

1h 50m | 18

www.imdb.com

 

[Sweet FA]

Saw this last night. Grim obviously. Fairbrass is great in it - not so much of the cam on then you slaaaaaaag and more actual acting, which he does very well as it turns out.

It's dark in subject and tone; there aren't many laughs to be had and the whole feel is grimy and hopeless - empty pubs and empty sex. I really liked it; it's a pretty uncomfortable watch and the feeling of the downward spiral never lets up.

 

[DaveCinzano]

Fairbrass has been extending his acting reach if not quite broadening his range of late - Villain was whilst not groundbreaking, a solidly made and thoughtful film, within the bounds of its chosen genre.

 

[Sweet FA]

Can't remember if I've seen that - will have a look.

What did you think of Muscle? Better, more coherent than Hyena I thought.

 

[DaveCinzano]

Can't remember if I've seen that - will have a look.

What did you think of Muscle? Better, more coherent than Hyena I thought.

I haven't had a chance to see it yet I was hoping it might get a local showing but I might need to bite the bullet and VOD it.

 

[DaveCinzano]

Fairbrass has been extending his acting reach if not quite broadening his range of late - Villain was whilst not groundbreaking, a solidly made and thoughtful film, within the bounds of its chosen genre.

Villain is on Netflix from Wednesday