Bronson (2008)

Based on a true story, “Bronson” chronicles the life of Michael Peterson, a man who wished to make a name for himself and chose a life of crime to achieve this goal. He was first imprisoned for a minor offense, but inside the prison system, he transformed into Charles Bronson, Britain’s most dangerous prisoner. The film offers a stylized, surreal, and darkly comedic account of Bronson’s life, focusing on his alter ego, his violent tendencies, and his desperate need for fame and recognition.

Length: 1h32m
Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
This Title is: Darkly Comedic and Intense

BRONSON IS STREAMING TODAY ON PRIME VIDEO CANADA!

Trailer

Cast

• Tom Hardy as Michael Peterson/Charles Bronson
• James Lance as Art Teacher
• Juliet Oldfield as Alison
• Jonathan Phillips as John White

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: R (for violent and disturbing content, language, some sexuality, and nudity)

Includes scenes of intense violence, brief nudity, and mature language.

Trivia

• Tom Hardy met the real Charles Bronson several times to prepare for the role, and Bronson was said to be pleased with Hardy’s portrayal.
• The film’s stylized approach takes inspiration from vaudeville and theatre, with Tom Hardy often breaking the fourth wall and speaking directly to the audience.
• Though named after the famous action star, Charles Bronson, Michael Peterson’s choice of the pseudonym had nothing to do with the actor. It was a name suggested by his fight promoter.

Our Review

“Bronson” is an unapologetic look into the mind of Britain’s most notorious prisoner. Tom Hardy delivers a powerful performance, bringing to life the dichotomy of a man who is simultaneously frightening and oddly magnetic. Director Nicolas Winding Refn captures the essence of Bronson’s world, blending reality with surrealism. While the film’s violent nature might not sit well with everyone, its artistic expression and commentary on fame and notoriety in the modern age make it a compelling watch. The cinematography, editing, and sound design further add layers to this gripping narrative, making “Bronson” a cinematic experience one won’t quickly forget.

Critic Scores

Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)