Brighton Rock

Brighton Rock is a novel by Graham Greene published in 1938.  In 1947 a film was made based on this novel, and today a remake is in theatres. 

My house mate Roo and I decided to go to the cinema on Saturday, and as we browsed through the listings we both agreed Brighton Rock was the perfect choice.  Being set in Brighton familiar scenes were sure to make the film interesting.  Additionally, it was playing at the Duke of York cinema which I have always wanted to go to.  It is a small old theatre with a lot of character.  Much more inviting and cosy than the large cinemas.

This version of Brighton Rock is set in 1964 and is about the mobsters of the time.  There is a quite a lot of violence, starting with a murder in the opening scene, which continues throughout the film.  But there is also a romance of sorts which added to my enjoyment of the film.  It's hard to say much more about it because I recommend you see this.  It's quite cultural and has great scenes of Brighton beach.   I was surprised that the beach chairs and wind shields are identical to those used today.

Discussing the film afterwards Roo and I both agreed that it's a good film, but it could have built up the characters and gone more in depth to make it a great film.  There was a lot going on, with the action at the end happening very quickly, and neither of us became emotionally attached to the characters.  If it would have gone more in depth it would be easier to choose a side and feel for the characters.  Our thinking this might in part due to the fact that neither of us are British.  British people probably know a lot more about the Mods and Rockers that used to rule Brighton, and also probably know about student riots of that time.  Or perhaps its just part of the reserved British culture to not expose more and not make the audience emotionally attached?  I'd love to hear a British person's point of view.

Also, I found the ending a bit annoying.  It is a happily ever after ending, and the girl, Rose, is a victim so I probably should be satisfied that she gets to remain in love and happy.  However, she was deluded in her love as he didn't really care for her.  The rest of the film was tragic enough I think I would have preferred pure tragedy.  Let her know the truth.  I makes Rose a silly girl.

As I said at the beginning of this post, I would recommend the film.  Even though it wasn't completely fulfilling it is interesting and there are good shots of Brighton.  I'm not sure if it's out in the States or if it will make it there, but if it does check it out!  And if you are British and reading this... what do you think of the film?

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