why so loud and so long..

Rating: 4/10 (28 February 2007)

Having read so many rave reviews on this site I reckon a little balance is needed. My ears are still ringing from my viewing last night in Manchester, I don't think I've ever been so overwhelmed by the volume, wish I'd been watching this on DVD then I could've turned it down (or off, though I think I would've soldiered on to the end - it is a British film after all).
The fundamental flaw though is the script, way way too many tired gags, labouring of stereotypes which don't allow any of the characters to grow. Even Carry On films allowed some character development. Given the limitations of the script the acting is generally good, but given the abundance of British stars here one would jolly well hope so. Exceptions to this were Martin Freeman and Steve Coogan, who would've been better off phoning their lines in.
If you're a Pegg et al fan, this review won't stop you going to see this film. If you're a neutral I suggest you find something else to watch.