By Rama Gaind
Here are two DVD titles which are different in subject matter, but are still excellent viewing.
Bronson (Madman Entertainment)
Stars: Tom Hardy, Kelly Adams, Luing Andrews
Director: Nicolas Winding Refn
This is a remarkable story of resilience. Michael Peterson is a hot-headed 19 year old who makes a name for himself by robbing a post office in 1974.
Of the 34 years he has been behind bars, 30 have been in solitary confinement.
During that time the boy in Petersen fades away and his superstar alter ego ‘Charles Bronson’ comes to centre stage, after he was re-named Charles Bronson by his fight promoter.
Narrated with humour, the line between comedy and horror is blurred.
Starring Tom Hardy (Rocknrolla, Layercake), this is the English language debut for Nicholas Winding Refn, director of the acclaimed Pusher series.
DVD special features are noteworthy including an exclusive Australian interview with the director.
Love The Beast (Madman Entertainment)
You don’t have to be a revhead to watch this film. Australian actor and car enthusiast Eric Bana tells a great story with his very own Ford GT Falcon Coupe – The Beast.
The simple story is about him, his first car, a lifetime of ownership and friendship.
Documenting his 25-year-long love story takes us through a gruelling motor race and a little disappointment.
Unwillingly Eric casts himself in his own real life drama as we follow him from inside the race car to the surreal world of the red carpet.
This true story is convincing as we follow Eric’s progress as a car lover and as a person conflicted by what he has done. He directs himself well.
As the social and personal pressures increase in the face of re-building his car, he seeks guidance and wisdom from not only his three life-long friends, but also Jay Leno, ‘Dr Phil’ McGraw and Jeremy Clarkson.
Watch out for the special highlights in this DVD pack.
