This is not a film for those who didn't know Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. This is a film for nostalgic fools like myself.
The story is wonderful, the cinematic history valuable, the recreation of the old routines had tears in my eyes.
But mostly it was the performance by two mature, leading actors who had the mannerisms and idiosyncrasies of one of the 20th century's most wonderful comedic duos so well learned, before long I had forgotten I wasn't watching the real Laurel and Hardy.
Brilliantly executed and a pleasure to enjoy.
429 Reviews
The last tour
bkoganbing22 February 2019
I was really bowled over by this film Stan & Ollie. Steve Coogan as Laurel and
John C. Reilly as Hardy were so dead on in their performances. I really thought
I was looking at the real Stan & Ollie off screen in private moments.
With a couple of flashbacks to the late 30s the film was a story of both Laurel and Hardy in their last days. Said last days consisted of a tour in the British Isles and a promise of yet another feature film shot in the United Kingdom and it would have been a Robin Hood kind of satire with Ollie as one obvious choice as Friar Tuck.
Things don't go as planned and Hardy's health is giving out. Ironically it was Stan who had the health problems before. They had made a film Bullfighters in 1945 and then Laurel had issues that kept him off the screen for 7 years. Ollie in that time did appearances with John Wayne in The Fighting Kentuckian in a sidekick role and as one of many comic actors in a memorable bit in Frank Capra's Riding High. The two did Utopia in 1952 and it was a bomb.
The film emphasizes and it's important to remember than neither of them owned any of their films. They made millions for producer Hal Roach yet it was only a straight salary they were paid. Laurel had been married multiple times and Hardy had a gambling problem.
So the guys are in Great Britain on tour because they need the money and hope to do one more film where they would share in the profits and have a more than comfortable old age. Sadly it doesn't work out that way. This film will tell you why.
What I liked best about Stan & Ollie is the chemistry between Coogan and Reilly in their characters. Newer comedy teams like Abbott&Costello and Martin&Lewis were in their prime just as Stan & Ollie were going into decline, but they had their well publicized spats and eventual breakups. These two guys never had those kind of incidents.
It was also nice to see Nina Arianda and Shirley Henderson as the last wives of the boys and the relationship of the four. Laurel was married 5 times and Hardy thrice. Wives and former wives were also an expensive proposition.
I think all Laurel and Hardy fans should see Stan & Ollie. And if you see this film make sure you acquaint yourself with their comic genius.
With a couple of flashbacks to the late 30s the film was a story of both Laurel and Hardy in their last days. Said last days consisted of a tour in the British Isles and a promise of yet another feature film shot in the United Kingdom and it would have been a Robin Hood kind of satire with Ollie as one obvious choice as Friar Tuck.
Things don't go as planned and Hardy's health is giving out. Ironically it was Stan who had the health problems before. They had made a film Bullfighters in 1945 and then Laurel had issues that kept him off the screen for 7 years. Ollie in that time did appearances with John Wayne in The Fighting Kentuckian in a sidekick role and as one of many comic actors in a memorable bit in Frank Capra's Riding High. The two did Utopia in 1952 and it was a bomb.
The film emphasizes and it's important to remember than neither of them owned any of their films. They made millions for producer Hal Roach yet it was only a straight salary they were paid. Laurel had been married multiple times and Hardy had a gambling problem.
So the guys are in Great Britain on tour because they need the money and hope to do one more film where they would share in the profits and have a more than comfortable old age. Sadly it doesn't work out that way. This film will tell you why.
What I liked best about Stan & Ollie is the chemistry between Coogan and Reilly in their characters. Newer comedy teams like Abbott&Costello and Martin&Lewis were in their prime just as Stan & Ollie were going into decline, but they had their well publicized spats and eventual breakups. These two guys never had those kind of incidents.
It was also nice to see Nina Arianda and Shirley Henderson as the last wives of the boys and the relationship of the four. Laurel was married 5 times and Hardy thrice. Wives and former wives were also an expensive proposition.
I think all Laurel and Hardy fans should see Stan & Ollie. And if you see this film make sure you acquaint yourself with their comic genius.
What a duet!
FrenchEddieFelson10 March 2019
After a quick introduction in 1937 during which we discover Laurel and Hardy at their peak and in full glory, we elliptically flip in 1953, which seems to be the beginning of the end of a legendary association imbued with a seamless friendship. The duet is wonderfully and faithfully interpreted by 2 excellent actors.
Grerat performances .. BUT....
euronick6123 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Steve & John were excellent as Stan and Ollie ... but why do the film makers feel it is necessary to alter facts? ... for example their tour started in Ireland with thousands of people waiting for them at the docks and all the churches of Cork, where they landed, played their theme music. Then after their hugely successful tour of Ireland they then went to Britain to packed houses throughout the tour .. why did they portray them as 'has been's' trying to rebuild their career when none of it was true .. please filmmakers, if you are going to make a film about real people tell it how it was not some fictionalized version.
If you like Laurel & Hardy, you really should see "Stan and Ollie"
smacgillivray-1129829 November 2018
I am an officer of the international Laurel & Hardy society Sons of the Desert, and I just attended a pre-release screening of the upcoming "Stan and Ollie."
Before the picture started I was thinking about older celebrity biographies that didn't work out ("The Buster Keaton Story," "The Eddie Cantor Story") and others that succeeded despite taking massive liberties with historical facts ("The Jolson Story," "The Buddy Holly Story"). Well, I thought, I'll keep an open mind and look at "Stan and Ollie" as a fictional, larger-than-life show.
Two words of advice, Laurel & Hardy fans: SEE IT.
The producers have taken extreme pains to set the scenes just so, with the decor, the props, the wardrobe, and the general atmosphere ringing true. The re-enactments of actual events are substantially accurate, but the screenwriter has juggled the chronology around for dramatic effect, so things don't happen in their actual order. The early scenes, for example, show the older Laurel & Hardy playing to small audiences in tiny theaters, and the final scenes show full houses in massive theaters -- in fact, the reverse was true, with the venues getting humbler as the years passed. At least one character is a composite of different people: Stan's self-effacing wife Ida is portrayed like one of his former wives, the strident Countess Illeana. The biggest dramatic liberty, seen in the "Stan and Ollie" trailers, has Stan and Babe arguing and battling. These scenes are well played and staged, but have no basis in fact. These scenes are more like the Martin & Lewis story, where the easygoing partner withstands the driven partner's moodiness and finally sounds off. The 97-minute feature should not be judged by these few inaccurate minutes.
We've all seen celebrity impersonations that are good, bad, or indifferent. I'm happy to report that Steve Coogan is outstanding as Stan Laurel, and John C. Reilly is astonishing as Oliver Hardy. The voices, the body language, the small gestures, the exaggerated "stage" personalities -- both actors are right on the money. This is no shallow, variety-show imitation. It's a surprisingly deep, heartfelt, and sincere portrayal of Laurel & Hardy, on stage and off.
"Stan and Ollie" opens in late December, and if you like Laurel & Hardy at all, have no fear -- you'll enjoy it. Will you recognize certain events in the story? Probably. Will you grin at the re-creations of the team's sketches? Almost certainly. But will you laugh your head off? No. This is an intimate story with only a few principals, and you might find yourself choked up more than once. Critics have called the relationship between the "Stan" and "Ollie" screen characters as the greatest love story of the movies. This new movie demonstrates it.
I hope Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are both nominated for Academy Awards as "Best Actor" -- and I hope they both win.
Before the picture started I was thinking about older celebrity biographies that didn't work out ("The Buster Keaton Story," "The Eddie Cantor Story") and others that succeeded despite taking massive liberties with historical facts ("The Jolson Story," "The Buddy Holly Story"). Well, I thought, I'll keep an open mind and look at "Stan and Ollie" as a fictional, larger-than-life show.
Two words of advice, Laurel & Hardy fans: SEE IT.
The producers have taken extreme pains to set the scenes just so, with the decor, the props, the wardrobe, and the general atmosphere ringing true. The re-enactments of actual events are substantially accurate, but the screenwriter has juggled the chronology around for dramatic effect, so things don't happen in their actual order. The early scenes, for example, show the older Laurel & Hardy playing to small audiences in tiny theaters, and the final scenes show full houses in massive theaters -- in fact, the reverse was true, with the venues getting humbler as the years passed. At least one character is a composite of different people: Stan's self-effacing wife Ida is portrayed like one of his former wives, the strident Countess Illeana. The biggest dramatic liberty, seen in the "Stan and Ollie" trailers, has Stan and Babe arguing and battling. These scenes are well played and staged, but have no basis in fact. These scenes are more like the Martin & Lewis story, where the easygoing partner withstands the driven partner's moodiness and finally sounds off. The 97-minute feature should not be judged by these few inaccurate minutes.
We've all seen celebrity impersonations that are good, bad, or indifferent. I'm happy to report that Steve Coogan is outstanding as Stan Laurel, and John C. Reilly is astonishing as Oliver Hardy. The voices, the body language, the small gestures, the exaggerated "stage" personalities -- both actors are right on the money. This is no shallow, variety-show imitation. It's a surprisingly deep, heartfelt, and sincere portrayal of Laurel & Hardy, on stage and off.
"Stan and Ollie" opens in late December, and if you like Laurel & Hardy at all, have no fear -- you'll enjoy it. Will you recognize certain events in the story? Probably. Will you grin at the re-creations of the team's sketches? Almost certainly. But will you laugh your head off? No. This is an intimate story with only a few principals, and you might find yourself choked up more than once. Critics have called the relationship between the "Stan" and "Ollie" screen characters as the greatest love story of the movies. This new movie demonstrates it.
I hope Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are both nominated for Academy Awards as "Best Actor" -- and I hope they both win.
Beautiful Madness
LeeMonde21 October 2018
I was fortunate enough to see the World Premiere of Stan and Ollie at the London Film Festival tonight and it will probably take a while to sink in how good this film really is.
The accuracy of the lead characters' quirky ways were perfectly portrayed by Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly and the supporting cast, notably Nina Arianda as Stan's Russian wife, should all take a bow.
Not actually sitting anywhere in the movie genre spectrum, Stan and Ollie will be remembered as one of those films that was really so good a depiction of real life characters that any other film maker trying to repeat this feat will only ever win second fiddle sympathy vote.
This is a love story of huge proportions and portrays that special, unique bond which has made this iconic duo the greatest comedy double act of all-time.
Superb, beautiful madness, I think.
The accuracy of the lead characters' quirky ways were perfectly portrayed by Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly and the supporting cast, notably Nina Arianda as Stan's Russian wife, should all take a bow.
Not actually sitting anywhere in the movie genre spectrum, Stan and Ollie will be remembered as one of those films that was really so good a depiction of real life characters that any other film maker trying to repeat this feat will only ever win second fiddle sympathy vote.
This is a love story of huge proportions and portrays that special, unique bond which has made this iconic duo the greatest comedy double act of all-time.
Superb, beautiful madness, I think.
Another Nice Mess is Anything But
Stan16mm6 November 2018
(No Spoilers here)
When fans of the iconic team of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy think of them, it is primarily their work that came out of the Hal Roach Studios that comes to mind. Whether in films from the waning days of the silent film period or through their work in short subjects and features through the 1930's, their often hilarious predicaments have burned a definite series of images in the minds and hearts of fans for over ninety years.
In the new film directed by John S. Baird, viewers are treated to that era in time but only briefly. The story of "Stan & Ollie" concerns itself with the least documented period of their careers; their British Tour of 1953. By this time, "The Boys" are years removed from their halcyon days as the top comedians in motion pictures. Away from the cameras, Mr. Laurel and Mr. Hardy perform on the stage for fans who grew up with them and still love them.
"At the end of the day we could have tried to do exactly what they did", John C Reilly (Oliver Hardy) explained to Ross Owen who was one of the consultants on the film, "but I don't think it would've been as satisfying as what we've done which is provide a human glimpse at these two performers". I am happy to report that this is exactly what they've done.
As Laurel and Hardy, Coogan and Reilly are wonderful whether playing the men off the stage or when recreating genuine Laurel and Hardy routines. The vocal interpretations are excellent; at times you may forget when Ollie yells, it is really Reilly!
As Stan Laurel, Steve Coogan has the difficult task of going from Laurel, the creative craft-smith and business man to Stan, the thin half of the comedy duo. Stan Laurel who Dick Van Dyke once said that while the great comedians always showed their "technique", Laurel never showed his; you actually believe he is that guy.
Coogan's Laurel, an older, more weathered man is still as brilliant at coming up with material, going through the paces and rigors of his work behind the scenes yet when he is Stan on stage with Hardy, the transformation is deft and lovely. You can hardly imagine that this simple comedian is the brains behind the creating of their material.
For John C. Reilly, the moments are even more subtle. There are times during the ninety eight minutes we spend with them that you forget you are watching an actor portraying Hardy. The final years of Oliver's life were beset with illness, an image few of his fans got to see which makes this portrayal more intense and riveting. The prosthetic make up created by Mark Coulier is so well done, you will lose yourself in the performance and believe you are seeing Oliver Hardy four years before his passing.
Equally as captivating are the performances of Nina Arianda and Shirley Henderson as Ida Laurel and Lucille Hardy. These talented actresses worked so well together, at times it's as if we are seeing another comedy team, reminiscent of another Hal Roach duo, Anita Garvin and Marion Byron. Arianda was afforded the opportunity of hearing Ida's voice from a recording made by longtime Laurel and Hardy fan, George Mazzey; Henderson had many tapes of Lucille to work with. Both women convey the same love and protection for their respective spouses.
Rufus Jones, a self proclaimed lifelong fan of Laurel and Hardy (he was a member of The Sons Of The Desert) is Stan and Babe's producer of the tour, Bernard Delfont and he's a riot as the promoter who get The Boys to do things they may not want to do with the skill of a surgeon.
While the most ardent fans of the real Laurel and Hardy will notice certain aspects of the film that don't hold to actual events as they may or may not have occurred, writer Jeff Pope has been able to condense separate events and place them together, telling the story without making the film a three hour affair.
Chock full with references that harken back to some of the classic films Stan and Babe made, these "easter eggs" do not detract the casual viewer from the proceedings. In fact, this is the perfect introduction to new viewers who may wish to seek out the treasure chest that awaits them in the Laurel and Hardy canon.
Inspired by the book about the British touring years by A.J. Marriot, the film is a genuine love story. Filled with heart, it is the little told account of the final performing years of Stan and Ollie and the wives and fans who loved them unconditionally. For people who will come to this story as newbies, they will understand the friendship and caring these men had for each other. For those who watch as lifelong fans, bring your handkerchief because this is one love story with the happy ending we've wanted to know.
When fans of the iconic team of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy think of them, it is primarily their work that came out of the Hal Roach Studios that comes to mind. Whether in films from the waning days of the silent film period or through their work in short subjects and features through the 1930's, their often hilarious predicaments have burned a definite series of images in the minds and hearts of fans for over ninety years.
In the new film directed by John S. Baird, viewers are treated to that era in time but only briefly. The story of "Stan & Ollie" concerns itself with the least documented period of their careers; their British Tour of 1953. By this time, "The Boys" are years removed from their halcyon days as the top comedians in motion pictures. Away from the cameras, Mr. Laurel and Mr. Hardy perform on the stage for fans who grew up with them and still love them.
"At the end of the day we could have tried to do exactly what they did", John C Reilly (Oliver Hardy) explained to Ross Owen who was one of the consultants on the film, "but I don't think it would've been as satisfying as what we've done which is provide a human glimpse at these two performers". I am happy to report that this is exactly what they've done.
As Laurel and Hardy, Coogan and Reilly are wonderful whether playing the men off the stage or when recreating genuine Laurel and Hardy routines. The vocal interpretations are excellent; at times you may forget when Ollie yells, it is really Reilly!
As Stan Laurel, Steve Coogan has the difficult task of going from Laurel, the creative craft-smith and business man to Stan, the thin half of the comedy duo. Stan Laurel who Dick Van Dyke once said that while the great comedians always showed their "technique", Laurel never showed his; you actually believe he is that guy.
Coogan's Laurel, an older, more weathered man is still as brilliant at coming up with material, going through the paces and rigors of his work behind the scenes yet when he is Stan on stage with Hardy, the transformation is deft and lovely. You can hardly imagine that this simple comedian is the brains behind the creating of their material.
For John C. Reilly, the moments are even more subtle. There are times during the ninety eight minutes we spend with them that you forget you are watching an actor portraying Hardy. The final years of Oliver's life were beset with illness, an image few of his fans got to see which makes this portrayal more intense and riveting. The prosthetic make up created by Mark Coulier is so well done, you will lose yourself in the performance and believe you are seeing Oliver Hardy four years before his passing.
Equally as captivating are the performances of Nina Arianda and Shirley Henderson as Ida Laurel and Lucille Hardy. These talented actresses worked so well together, at times it's as if we are seeing another comedy team, reminiscent of another Hal Roach duo, Anita Garvin and Marion Byron. Arianda was afforded the opportunity of hearing Ida's voice from a recording made by longtime Laurel and Hardy fan, George Mazzey; Henderson had many tapes of Lucille to work with. Both women convey the same love and protection for their respective spouses.
Rufus Jones, a self proclaimed lifelong fan of Laurel and Hardy (he was a member of The Sons Of The Desert) is Stan and Babe's producer of the tour, Bernard Delfont and he's a riot as the promoter who get The Boys to do things they may not want to do with the skill of a surgeon.
While the most ardent fans of the real Laurel and Hardy will notice certain aspects of the film that don't hold to actual events as they may or may not have occurred, writer Jeff Pope has been able to condense separate events and place them together, telling the story without making the film a three hour affair.
Chock full with references that harken back to some of the classic films Stan and Babe made, these "easter eggs" do not detract the casual viewer from the proceedings. In fact, this is the perfect introduction to new viewers who may wish to seek out the treasure chest that awaits them in the Laurel and Hardy canon.
Inspired by the book about the British touring years by A.J. Marriot, the film is a genuine love story. Filled with heart, it is the little told account of the final performing years of Stan and Ollie and the wives and fans who loved them unconditionally. For people who will come to this story as newbies, they will understand the friendship and caring these men had for each other. For those who watch as lifelong fans, bring your handkerchief because this is one love story with the happy ending we've wanted to know.
Stan & Ollie still entertaining us
adamsmith-5100424 January 2019
Set during Laurel and Hardy's final stage tour of the UK and Ireland in 1953, the film serves as a beautifully visual and scripted character study of the pair at the tail end of their career.
At the heart of the film are two great performances by Steve Coogan and John C Reilly as the eponymous duo. The recreation of their look, voices, mannerisms and routines seems flawless and unforced. The contrast between their screen personas, that made their films a success and their actual personalities off screen, is plausibly portrayed. There is good support from Nina Ariande and Shirley Henderson as Mrs Laurel and Hardy, whose spiky relationship mirrors that of their respective husbands' on screen characters.
The film shot with a keen eye for the period, using some interesting close shots angled through mirrors to capture the pair's expressions and wider sweeping ones to show audience's response. There are some neatly timed comic scenes of their life imitating their art.
A fine balance of humour and poignance.
At the heart of the film are two great performances by Steve Coogan and John C Reilly as the eponymous duo. The recreation of their look, voices, mannerisms and routines seems flawless and unforced. The contrast between their screen personas, that made their films a success and their actual personalities off screen, is plausibly portrayed. There is good support from Nina Ariande and Shirley Henderson as Mrs Laurel and Hardy, whose spiky relationship mirrors that of their respective husbands' on screen characters.
The film shot with a keen eye for the period, using some interesting close shots angled through mirrors to capture the pair's expressions and wider sweeping ones to show audience's response. There are some neatly timed comic scenes of their life imitating their art.
A fine balance of humour and poignance.
Reilly should be nominated for an oscar
paulspencer-9039412 January 2019
Quick look at the production, 10 million. It has clearly gone on all the sets, all of which are wonderful. But lets start with the script. The film is well written, not a word out of place, with tone and theme about getting older and friendship hitting every mark.
But it is the acting that raises the film. Both Coogan and Reilly have been underrated for years, Hollywood only likes comedic actors when they are hosting the show. Here they clearly love the subject they are dealing with, and hit every subtle mark with ease. I have to say that Reilly is just the better actor out of the two, if only because he works in a fat suit throughout the film. He is so good, you feel for him, and I hope he wins lots of awards for this.
On a side note, my wife, who has not seen as many of the original Laurel and Hardy films as I have, had tears at the end.
Outstanding acting!
toneleigh-16-80394121 September 2019
If you're truly a Stan & Oliver fan you will we blown away from the acting performance from Steve Coogan and John C Relly, i did think this was a poor choice at first for actors but they proved quality performance and accuracy of these pure comic genius.
A heartfelt movie about two iconic comedians...
paul_haakonsen16 March 2019
I watched the old classic Laurel and Hardy movies when I was a kid, and I must admit that I have nothing but fond memories of them. So I was a little bit skeptical about "Stan & Ollie" when I came to hear about it. And truth be told, having John C. Reilly in the role as Oliver Hardy sort of made my toes curl.
Now I had the chance to sit down and watch it. First of all I have to start out by saying hats off to John C. Reilly for really pulling the wool over my eyes here. He phenomenally managed to go from being your average run-of-the-mill comedy actor to actually surprising the wazoo out of me. He really performed so well in this movie and proves that he has so much more talent than just being another generic comedian performer.
"Stan & Ollie" is a feel-good comedy drama about two of the most memorable actors and characters in the history of comedy; Stan Laurel (as played by Steve Coogan) and Oliver Hardy (as played by John C. Reilly). And the storyline takes the audience on a very nice behind-the-scenes trip for which I suppose many people have no idea about whom Laurel and Hardy were behind the faces they performed in the movies.
They made both Coogan and Reilly look very much alike to Laurel and Hardy respectively. Especially Steve Coogan, his lookalike to Stan Laurel was just superb. At times you felt like you were actually still watching Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel on the screen, it was just uncanny.
The storyline in "Stan & Ollie" is good paced and it is an entertaining story for sure. However, I just feel that this is the type of movie that you will watch once and most likely never return to watch a second time because the storyline, while good, just doesn't have enough meat on it to sustain multiple viewings.
Now I had the chance to sit down and watch it. First of all I have to start out by saying hats off to John C. Reilly for really pulling the wool over my eyes here. He phenomenally managed to go from being your average run-of-the-mill comedy actor to actually surprising the wazoo out of me. He really performed so well in this movie and proves that he has so much more talent than just being another generic comedian performer.
"Stan & Ollie" is a feel-good comedy drama about two of the most memorable actors and characters in the history of comedy; Stan Laurel (as played by Steve Coogan) and Oliver Hardy (as played by John C. Reilly). And the storyline takes the audience on a very nice behind-the-scenes trip for which I suppose many people have no idea about whom Laurel and Hardy were behind the faces they performed in the movies.
They made both Coogan and Reilly look very much alike to Laurel and Hardy respectively. Especially Steve Coogan, his lookalike to Stan Laurel was just superb. At times you felt like you were actually still watching Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel on the screen, it was just uncanny.
The storyline in "Stan & Ollie" is good paced and it is an entertaining story for sure. However, I just feel that this is the type of movie that you will watch once and most likely never return to watch a second time because the storyline, while good, just doesn't have enough meat on it to sustain multiple viewings.
A surprise
sforrester-318 September 2019
I didn't go into this as a Laurel and Hardy fan and wasn't expecting too much. Imagine my surprise twenty minutes in when I was absolutely engrossed.
Reilly and Coogan were excellent as our 2 leads. I've seen enough Laurel and Hardy to know they really nailed it. The film itself was about their later years when their stars had faded a bit and they were on a tour of the UK. I can't comment on how factually correct it was but it was certainly a moving and touching account of two friends in the autumn of their lives.
Its not often you can tell how much love has gone into a film but it is obvious with this one.. it's not been made as a money maker or a vanity project, its literally a labour of love and it comes across as such in every scene. Loved it.
Stan & Ollie stands up with its classic comedy to portray a famous friendship.
TheMovieDiorama13 January 2019
Having never seen a film with Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, I was sceptical that this biographical drama wouldn't be accessible for younger audiences. However what Baird manages to do is integrate the infamous slapstick humour that the duo prevailed in into a modern biopic that, for the most part, makes for a pleasant watch. Yet the reliance of typical narrative clichés that many biographical features contain does make Stan & Ollie occasionally stale. Set in the later years of the duo's career, they tour the United Kingdom whilst also working on a potential movie in a bid to stay relevant. During these times of excessive work and stress, their friendship and health is put under strain.
There is an underlying power that strives through Baird's ingeniously feel-good biopic, and that's the brute force of slapstick comedy. In a time where humour has "evolved" into crude behaviour consisting of sex, drugs and alcohol, the frequency of these comedies have caused the genre to become tiresome. Stan & Ollie acknowledges this and utilises the eponymous duo's unexpired material to create plenty of laughs. Seriously, you'll be smiling and laughing at the stupidity and nonsensical nature of their sketches (and that's coming from a dead person). Nostalgia plays an important part in the biopic, but it is never forced. The humour that has made these individuals so famous is actually replicated in their daily lives, which in turn inspires them to create new material. They are portrayed to be ludicrously hardworking, boisterously hilarious yet most importantly sincere. From the introductory one take scene, you automatically connect with them and the transitional segments where we see audiences laugh at their work shows how contagious they were as both staged personalities and individuals. Even during times when their friendship is rather rocky, you sense their unity. They are as one. After all, "there is no Laurel without Hardy". The conveyance of this mature friendship couldn't have been achieved without the two lead performances. Both Coogan and Reilly were enigmatic and truly became Laurel and Hardy respectively. Coogan's eccentric mannerisms and Reilly's physically demanding performance (t'was a large fat suit!) complemented each other perfectly. Fortunately the credits sequence included archival footage, to which cemented how excellent the acting choices were. It's a shame they are not getting as much recognition as they deserve.
As with other joyous biopics, it never attempts to reinvent the genre. It's narrative structure is fairly formulaic, and that unfortunately creates a few moments of predictability that somewhat detracts from the emotional investment. If you can immediately predict how the characters will play out in the third act, then you cannot fully feel the emotions that the script wants you to feel. Thankfully the screenplay is full of buoyancy and consistently keeps the pace moving. Perhaps slightly too fast, as the large time shift at the beginning will throw some viewers off.
So, what is the most imperative aspect to a biographical depiction of comedians/entertainers? The comedy. Stan & Ollie captures the slapstick humour that we've all missed and properly makes you laugh. I was laughing. The old couple in front of me were in hysterics, and the school child at the front was having a good time to. A resounding success! It just goes to show that Laurel and Hardy really are timeless.
There is an underlying power that strives through Baird's ingeniously feel-good biopic, and that's the brute force of slapstick comedy. In a time where humour has "evolved" into crude behaviour consisting of sex, drugs and alcohol, the frequency of these comedies have caused the genre to become tiresome. Stan & Ollie acknowledges this and utilises the eponymous duo's unexpired material to create plenty of laughs. Seriously, you'll be smiling and laughing at the stupidity and nonsensical nature of their sketches (and that's coming from a dead person). Nostalgia plays an important part in the biopic, but it is never forced. The humour that has made these individuals so famous is actually replicated in their daily lives, which in turn inspires them to create new material. They are portrayed to be ludicrously hardworking, boisterously hilarious yet most importantly sincere. From the introductory one take scene, you automatically connect with them and the transitional segments where we see audiences laugh at their work shows how contagious they were as both staged personalities and individuals. Even during times when their friendship is rather rocky, you sense their unity. They are as one. After all, "there is no Laurel without Hardy". The conveyance of this mature friendship couldn't have been achieved without the two lead performances. Both Coogan and Reilly were enigmatic and truly became Laurel and Hardy respectively. Coogan's eccentric mannerisms and Reilly's physically demanding performance (t'was a large fat suit!) complemented each other perfectly. Fortunately the credits sequence included archival footage, to which cemented how excellent the acting choices were. It's a shame they are not getting as much recognition as they deserve.
As with other joyous biopics, it never attempts to reinvent the genre. It's narrative structure is fairly formulaic, and that unfortunately creates a few moments of predictability that somewhat detracts from the emotional investment. If you can immediately predict how the characters will play out in the third act, then you cannot fully feel the emotions that the script wants you to feel. Thankfully the screenplay is full of buoyancy and consistently keeps the pace moving. Perhaps slightly too fast, as the large time shift at the beginning will throw some viewers off.
So, what is the most imperative aspect to a biographical depiction of comedians/entertainers? The comedy. Stan & Ollie captures the slapstick humour that we've all missed and properly makes you laugh. I was laughing. The old couple in front of me were in hysterics, and the school child at the front was having a good time to. A resounding success! It just goes to show that Laurel and Hardy really are timeless.
One for the fans of Laurel & Hardy
martimusross18 December 2018
One for the Fans
This movie so relied on prior knowledge of Laurel and Hardy and there comedic work that it was aimed at enthusiastic fans and as such I will address my review at that audience.
There was much to admire in this movie and much to despair. I loved the two actors who played Laurel and Hardy, both Steve Coogan and John C Reilly gave it their all, they were entirely convincing and created a real chemistry on the screen that was palpable. The cinematography was imaginative but lacked variety.
The things that just didn't work, I always remember when Bette Davis said that her life was uninteresting as it only consisted of work and more work and thus is evidently was with Laurel and Hardy. There was just insufficient material to justify a movie. Lastly is was contrived to focus on the last few years of their long lives, all comedians slow down fade and eventually die as we all do, again this is unremarkable. Had the balance been better struck demonstrating their creative process and how they enjoyed their success and what was their magical appeal this would have proved more satisfactory.
Having been harsh, I found this movie charming I watched it through and I find my criticism in hindsight.
This movie so relied on prior knowledge of Laurel and Hardy and there comedic work that it was aimed at enthusiastic fans and as such I will address my review at that audience.
There was much to admire in this movie and much to despair. I loved the two actors who played Laurel and Hardy, both Steve Coogan and John C Reilly gave it their all, they were entirely convincing and created a real chemistry on the screen that was palpable. The cinematography was imaginative but lacked variety.
The things that just didn't work, I always remember when Bette Davis said that her life was uninteresting as it only consisted of work and more work and thus is evidently was with Laurel and Hardy. There was just insufficient material to justify a movie. Lastly is was contrived to focus on the last few years of their long lives, all comedians slow down fade and eventually die as we all do, again this is unremarkable. Had the balance been better struck demonstrating their creative process and how they enjoyed their success and what was their magical appeal this would have proved more satisfactory.
Having been harsh, I found this movie charming I watched it through and I find my criticism in hindsight.
It's not over till the fat man sings
Padreviews14 January 2019
This film surprised me - I was expecting comedy I got heart wrenching drama . The acting was superb, the friendship real - the raw gritty true love both pain and pleasure .
The story is about their swansong , and their resurgence in the early 1950s after their demise in 1937 it's a sad story though , don't go expecting comedy go expecting to be in tears .
There were times when I thought this film would be a 4/10 but the relatively short length of the film helped and the final quarter was so powerful that it made up for the shortcomings and negativity in the first three quarters .
It's not a feel good movie . But overall it was a good movie I'm glad I went to see it .
Pad.A 7/10
The story is about their swansong , and their resurgence in the early 1950s after their demise in 1937 it's a sad story though , don't go expecting comedy go expecting to be in tears .
There were times when I thought this film would be a 4/10 but the relatively short length of the film helped and the final quarter was so powerful that it made up for the shortcomings and negativity in the first three quarters .
It's not a feel good movie . But overall it was a good movie I'm glad I went to see it .
Pad.A 7/10
Takes your breath away
watf-7114425 November 2020
I watched this film for the first a few weeks ago. I have just finished watching it again for the fourth time this week. The film is just emotionally draining.
I have never watched a film where I was laughing and so sad at the same time.
Honestly I had sadness and joy fighting in my heart.
From the acting, writing and production the film is bursting with love.
In the year of Covid , where I have watched untold films, this is the one I have enjoyed the most and would recommend it to anyone.
Earnest, but doesn't live up to its potential
Camoo13 April 2019
Stan & Ollie is a film with a sweet heart and an innocence which succeeds in its earnestness, and as an homage to the time period in which it's set, however I found the sweetness sometimes a cover for its simplicity, and a humor which is so vintage that I found it difficult to connect with. I didn't laugh once, which is odd for a film about the world's most famous comedy duo.
I suppose the success of this film lies on ones appreciation of Laurel and Hardy in the first place and I admit, I have never been their biggest fan. Humor from this period didn't always age well, and is a reflection of different, simpler times, when 'outrageous' meant a pie in the face, and the line "well, here's another nice mess you've gotten me into!" was considered hilarious. If I had to choose, I would much prefer to spend my time with Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd or Chaplin, whose work I think is more timeless, and less one dimensional.
Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are both very good in this film, and their pairing was the main draw for me. Coogan in particular makes for a convincing Stan Laurel, and there is chemistry between the two which is undeniable. But scene after scene, I found the comedy wasn't landing for me, even when the two were 'out of character' and just acting as Stan and Ollie. I also found its melodramatic scenes sappy and overwrought. The script seems a product of another time, which is probably the point, but it takes itself enormously seriously, and lacks in snappy dialogue, shying from anything offbeat, which would have given it an energy I would have appreciated.
It's an odd film for the uninitiated, and if you're not the biggest fan of Laurel and Hardy it might be difficult to connect, in spite of the decency and charisma of its two lead actors. But the themes of friendship and brotherly love aspire to something greater than historical re-enactments, and it can be refreshing to see such earnestness and naivete in a modern film, which is all too rare these days
I suppose the success of this film lies on ones appreciation of Laurel and Hardy in the first place and I admit, I have never been their biggest fan. Humor from this period didn't always age well, and is a reflection of different, simpler times, when 'outrageous' meant a pie in the face, and the line "well, here's another nice mess you've gotten me into!" was considered hilarious. If I had to choose, I would much prefer to spend my time with Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd or Chaplin, whose work I think is more timeless, and less one dimensional.
Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are both very good in this film, and their pairing was the main draw for me. Coogan in particular makes for a convincing Stan Laurel, and there is chemistry between the two which is undeniable. But scene after scene, I found the comedy wasn't landing for me, even when the two were 'out of character' and just acting as Stan and Ollie. I also found its melodramatic scenes sappy and overwrought. The script seems a product of another time, which is probably the point, but it takes itself enormously seriously, and lacks in snappy dialogue, shying from anything offbeat, which would have given it an energy I would have appreciated.
It's an odd film for the uninitiated, and if you're not the biggest fan of Laurel and Hardy it might be difficult to connect, in spite of the decency and charisma of its two lead actors. But the themes of friendship and brotherly love aspire to something greater than historical re-enactments, and it can be refreshing to see such earnestness and naivete in a modern film, which is all too rare these days
A must for all Stan & Ollie fans
jimclarke-315 January 2019
I don't think I have ever laughed and shed tears so much in any one film. Admittedly as a lifelong L&H enthusiast, I was prepared to be hyper-critical as so many biopics are frankly terrible.
No need to worry, the depiction of each by the superb John C Reilly and Steve Coogan was immaculate; sometimes you could think you were watching the originals. Matched by true authenticity and camera work, this is the best film I have seen for years. It will be very interesting to see if it receives the awards it richly deserves as it does not fit the usual description of recent Oscars etc
A sweet and charming telling of Laurel & Hardy's twilight years
gortx14 January 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I was never a big fan of Laurel & Hardy. Sure, I had seen BABES IN TOYLAND and, of course, The Music Box (among other shorts). Didn't dislike them, but they never did create a large enough impact on me to investigate them further as opposed to Chaplin, Keaton, Lloyd etc.. Fortunately, one of the most successful aspects of STAN & OLLIE is that you don't have to be a fan to enjoy it. While there are certainly special connections and subtle enjoyments to be had if you are, Jon Baird's movie doesn't use familiarity as a crutch. And, there aren't lots of loaded 'in jokes' that only members of the Sons of the Desert (a L&H fan group) will get. Jeff Pope's script plays just as well as a universal tale of artists in their twilight years.
After a brief prologue set during their heyday, we find Stan (Steve Coogan) and Ollie (John C Reilly) on the road in England in the 1950s. Their career is on the downside and they are no longer playing in major theaters (nor full houses), nor staying at the best hotels. They have been promised that a comeback feature film about Robin Hood awaits them.
The tour struggles lead us into a deeper understanding of the duo, and leads to one inescapable observation - while they were longtime collaborators, they were never intimate friends. Those personal schisms are only exacerbated once their spouses join them on the road. Shirley Henderson (Mrs. Hardy) and Nina Arianda (Mrs. Laurel) are just as different from each other as their spouses (the pair of actresses form their own terrific thespian duo). Still, out of all the conflict, Stan and Ollie have a deeper bond that ties them together beyond mere pleasantries - it's a genuine love story. A bond based on loyalty more than simple social graces.
STAN & OLLIE is told in an, appropriately, old fashioned manner. Nothing groundbreaking stylistically and without the wink-wink modernism of so many bio-pics which often go out of their way to "prove" they are hipper than their subject. Coogan and Reilly create real magic on screen. While they may not be a perfect replica of the real duo, they still manage to make a believable team - not just on stage, but, in their friendship. STAN & OLLIE is a short and (bitter)sweet movie that is happy to just tell it's humble story (all of 97 minutes). But, it does it very well. A charmer.
Great performances from Steve Coogan and John C Reily
jamesfowler12318 December 2018
Enjoyable film and loved the fact that this film didn't need to have music being played to constantly tell you how to feel like most films. Great performances and I would say the film is better in terms of script and plot than Bohemian Rhapsody.
Heart rendering beauty
lurpak12 January 2019
Steve Coogan has catapulted himself into a different class in this film, John C Riley, well you kind of expect and he never disappoints, solid and dependable.
With such distinguished and recognisable cast, you kind of expect to see the familiar characters of the actors themselves playing parts that you cannot suspend disbelief. Clint Eastwood for example, you see a Clint Eastwood film, you have no idea who he's playing, it's just Clint Eastwood. But here, Steve Coogan disappears from the screen and becomes Stan Laurel, you are aware there are some slight physical appearance which make you know it's not quite right, but you are not seeing Steve Coogan, that's for sure. The film is engaging, enlightening into the real people that existed behind the alter egos of Laurel and Hardy, and is a beautiful dip into their personal relationship without portraying any dirty dark revelations that a sensationalist may be tempted to put into a film.
Instead it remains for the most, a journey you take with the boys, and their struggle to remain relevant in a fast changing world after some not so good decisions in hindsight, and decisions which were presented well enough for you to subscribe to the reasoning of each possibility and probably make the same mistakes yourself. What im trying to say is that some films will present such bad career decisions as painfully obvious to the viewer, but this film left you taking both sides with equal validity.
But most of all, the film presents their deep and loving friendship. I wept, I wiped the tears and weaped some more. The kind of tear when you are simply moved by such genuine love. The film seemed to be over too quickly, I could've stayed another hour and half. Well done all concerned.
Now this, this is award winning stuff.
But most of all, the film presents their deep and loving friendship. I wept, I wiped the tears and weaped some more. The kind of tear when you are simply moved by such genuine love. The film seemed to be over too quickly, I could've stayed another hour and half. Well done all concerned.
Now this, this is award winning stuff.
a warm tribute to comedic giants
ferguson-631 December 2018
Greetings again from the darkness. Any list of the all-time great comedic teams would surely include Laurel and Hardy at or near the top. Influenced by pioneers such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and The Marx Brothers, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy (the rotund one) rose to the top of the comedy world through their films and shorts produced by Hal Roach Studios during 1926-1941. In later years, we recognize the Laurel and Hardy influence in hugely popular acts such as Abbott & Costello and The Three Stooges. Director Jon S Baird (FILTH, 2013) and writer Joe Pope (PHILOMENA, 2013) deliver a warm tribute to the comedy giants by giving us a peek on stage and off.
The film kicks off in 1937 when the duo are the height of their popularity, and a wonderful extended opening take allows us to follow them as they make their way across the studio lot and onto the set of their latest film, WAY OUT WEST. Before filming the scene, they have a little dust up with studio owner Hal Roach (Danny Huston) over the money they are being paid per their contract. Stan thinks they deserve more, while Oliver, racked with debt from a stream of broken marriages, prefers to not rock the boat.
It's this early scene that acts as a precursor to the challenges we witness in the business partnership side of the duo. Imagine if the work of you and your business partner were on display for the world to judge. And how does friendship fit in? The film flashes forward to 1953 when the popularity of the comedic duo has faded. They find themselves on a United Kingdom tour arranged by smarmy booking agent Bernard Delfont (played well by Rufus Jones). The purpose of the tour is to convince a film producer to back their Robin Hood parody idea. The early gigs are very small music venues and the crowds are even smaller. But these are true pros, and soon Stan and Ollie hustle up their own growing audiences, and by the time their wives join them on the tour, they are filling the best venues.
As Lucille Hardy (Shirley Henderson) and Ida Laurel (Nina Arianda) make their appearance, we soon find ourselves with two comedy teams to watch. The chemistry between the ladies is so terrific, they could be the featured players in their own movie. Lucille is a strong and quiet former script girl who is quite protective of her Ollie, while the outspoken Ida is a former Russian dancer who, in her own way, is also protective of the gentlemen performers.
The suppressed resentment over the (much) earlier Roach negotiations finally boils over in a heart-wrenching scene. The grudges and feelings of betrayal are voiced - alongside Ollie's physical ailments. As they air their grievances, it cuts to the quick. Not long after, Ollie's heart condition finds the two mimicking their "hospital" skit in real life ... it's a show of ultimate friendship that can only be built through decades of working closely together.
John C Reilly plays Oliver Hardy (the American) and Steve Coogan is Stan Laurel (the Brit). Both are extraordinary in capturing the look and movements of the comic geniuses. Mr. Reilly and Mr. Coogan are such strong actors, that it's difficult to decide which segments are best. Is it the reenactments of some of Laurel and Hardy's iconic skits, or is the off-stage moments when they are dealing with the human side of these entertainment giants? Reilly benefits from excellent make-up and prosthetics (that chin!) and Coogan has the hair and determination needed for his role.
Director Baird's film is sweet and sad and funny. Stan and Ollie deserve this warm tribute, and it's a reminder of all the stress and hard work that performers put in so that the show looks "easy". This is what's meant by honing the craft ... even if it's "another fine mess" accompanied by the trademark "Dance of the Cuckoos" music. Let's hope the film attracts some youngsters who might gain an appreciation for the good ol' days of Classical Hollywood.
The film kicks off in 1937 when the duo are the height of their popularity, and a wonderful extended opening take allows us to follow them as they make their way across the studio lot and onto the set of their latest film, WAY OUT WEST. Before filming the scene, they have a little dust up with studio owner Hal Roach (Danny Huston) over the money they are being paid per their contract. Stan thinks they deserve more, while Oliver, racked with debt from a stream of broken marriages, prefers to not rock the boat.
It's this early scene that acts as a precursor to the challenges we witness in the business partnership side of the duo. Imagine if the work of you and your business partner were on display for the world to judge. And how does friendship fit in? The film flashes forward to 1953 when the popularity of the comedic duo has faded. They find themselves on a United Kingdom tour arranged by smarmy booking agent Bernard Delfont (played well by Rufus Jones). The purpose of the tour is to convince a film producer to back their Robin Hood parody idea. The early gigs are very small music venues and the crowds are even smaller. But these are true pros, and soon Stan and Ollie hustle up their own growing audiences, and by the time their wives join them on the tour, they are filling the best venues.
As Lucille Hardy (Shirley Henderson) and Ida Laurel (Nina Arianda) make their appearance, we soon find ourselves with two comedy teams to watch. The chemistry between the ladies is so terrific, they could be the featured players in their own movie. Lucille is a strong and quiet former script girl who is quite protective of her Ollie, while the outspoken Ida is a former Russian dancer who, in her own way, is also protective of the gentlemen performers.
The suppressed resentment over the (much) earlier Roach negotiations finally boils over in a heart-wrenching scene. The grudges and feelings of betrayal are voiced - alongside Ollie's physical ailments. As they air their grievances, it cuts to the quick. Not long after, Ollie's heart condition finds the two mimicking their "hospital" skit in real life ... it's a show of ultimate friendship that can only be built through decades of working closely together.
John C Reilly plays Oliver Hardy (the American) and Steve Coogan is Stan Laurel (the Brit). Both are extraordinary in capturing the look and movements of the comic geniuses. Mr. Reilly and Mr. Coogan are such strong actors, that it's difficult to decide which segments are best. Is it the reenactments of some of Laurel and Hardy's iconic skits, or is the off-stage moments when they are dealing with the human side of these entertainment giants? Reilly benefits from excellent make-up and prosthetics (that chin!) and Coogan has the hair and determination needed for his role.
Director Baird's film is sweet and sad and funny. Stan and Ollie deserve this warm tribute, and it's a reminder of all the stress and hard work that performers put in so that the show looks "easy". This is what's meant by honing the craft ... even if it's "another fine mess" accompanied by the trademark "Dance of the Cuckoos" music. Let's hope the film attracts some youngsters who might gain an appreciation for the good ol' days of Classical Hollywood.
Laurel and Hardy are alive and well
deanok27 October 2018
I've been a massive Laurel and Hardy fan been since I was a kid....... and I've watched their films over and over again through the years so I am very familiar with how they talk ,move and dance... which makes Steve Coogan and John C Reillys' performance even more amazing. They 100% nail their performances....
Even if you haven't heard of Laurel and Hardy (where have you been ??)...you should still enjoy this for film as it's a great look behind the scenes of early hollywood and a really touching story.. I must stress this is a drama not a comedy film although there are some comic moments....( surprisingly a lot of the comedy comes from the boys wives who also were played to perfection )
Basically it's a Love Story between two good friends. Stan and Ollie... It's beautifully shot and hopefully it will bring L and H to a new generation of fans
Auw....two men, that had nothing to say....
ingmarbeldman-753-92721227 January 2019
Auw...
Left the theatre with a melancholic feeing on a rainy Sunday...
This is a movie that had to be made, serving the sentiment of me and so many. But it shouldn't have been made at the same time. Because there is no drama. Just a funny act.
Exactly that sobering fact is the premise of 'Stan & Laurel' and supported by the setting - the couple in their final days - could have lifted the movie to an intriguing search for 'the men behind the act'.
But 'auw' again. The premise is left with bones, no meat.
Because there is no painful understanding, restless desire, glorious self-destruction.. No, Arthur Stanley Jefferson and Norvell Hardy..
they simply had nothing to say....
PS: my tating goes to the outstanding performance of the actors, the set-dressing and cinematography!!
This is a movie that had to be made, serving the sentiment of me and so many. But it shouldn't have been made at the same time. Because there is no drama. Just a funny act.
Exactly that sobering fact is the premise of 'Stan & Laurel' and supported by the setting - the couple in their final days - could have lifted the movie to an intriguing search for 'the men behind the act'.
But 'auw' again. The premise is left with bones, no meat.
Because there is no painful understanding, restless desire, glorious self-destruction.. No, Arthur Stanley Jefferson and Norvell Hardy..
they simply had nothing to say....
PS: my tating goes to the outstanding performance of the actors, the set-dressing and cinematography!!
Really wanted to like this more
agmoldham4 February 2019
I'm a massive fan of Laurel and Hardy, so really wanted to like this movie more than I did.
The film follows Stan and Ollie as they take a trip around Britain in 1953. John C Reilly plays Oliie and Steve Coogan plays Stan. The film is set long after their golden pre war days. It looks at the relationship between the 2 stars and their very different wives. The film can't really decide whether to go for the full on comedy aspect of the pair or for the complicated relationships between them. Personally I think it would have been better to go one way or the other. It works in parts, but at other times doesn't feel true to life.
Having said all that the lead actors do a great job in bringing Stan and Ollie back to life. I'd be tempted to put on one of their classic shorts though rather than watching this film.
The film follows Stan and Ollie as they take a trip around Britain in 1953. John C Reilly plays Oliie and Steve Coogan plays Stan. The film is set long after their golden pre war days. It looks at the relationship between the 2 stars and their very different wives. The film can't really decide whether to go for the full on comedy aspect of the pair or for the complicated relationships between them. Personally I think it would have been better to go one way or the other. It works in parts, but at other times doesn't feel true to life.
Having said all that the lead actors do a great job in bringing Stan and Ollie back to life. I'd be tempted to put on one of their classic shorts though rather than watching this film.
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