Warning - spoilers

Rating: Null/10 (10 April 2004)

Anyone who likes Spaced will love this film as it captures all the style and humour of the show, although it isn't loaded with movie references. This is the funniest film to come out of the UK for a long time and, despite it's low budget, looks good too. Like Spaced there is lots of flashy camera work, which doesn't really add much to the film, although it gives it a bit more energy, which is always welcome. The cast are excellent and are clearly enjoying themselves, whether they're playing fruit machines, or having their intestines pulled out. The violence is fairly graphic but there isn't as much as you'd expect, considering the subject matter. One of the best things about the film, apart from it being hilarious, is how unpredictable it is. I was expecting everyone to come out of the pub alive, and I was definitely expecting Shaun's mum to make it. Luckily, this film avoids following any formula, and saves a satisfying twist for the final scene. The only criticisms I have are that Dylan Moran's character was too serious, I was expecting a lot of laughs from him after Black Books, and others were underused. A whole line of British comic talent, including Matt Lucas and Martin Freeman, was wasted as they only appeared for a few seconds. These minor flaws aside, this film is a must-see gem. Can't wait for the DVD.