There are a lot of spy comedies that have come out recently. In fact you could spend hours lounging around catching the most recent; ‘Kingsmen,’ ‘The man from U.N.C.L.E’ and ‘Spy,’ but none have the right air of vulgar shocking-ness like that of the work of Sacha Baron Cohen. Most famously known as Borat and Bruno – Cohen proves in his most recent film ‘Grimsby,’ that he still wears the crown of politically incorrect humour.
Cohen is a brilliant character actor, and having studied clowning in the past, knows how to push the limits; not only crossing the line but drawing a new one so far down the road you can’t even see it. I’m perplexed by today’s broadcasting restrictions how a film featuring close up bestiality can make it to the big screen – but that doesn’t make it any less funny. So many of the scenes in ‘Grimsby’ are so outrageous and appalling that you can’t help but enjoy the ride and embrace the fun of it all.
Cohen plays ‘Nobby’ a Chav British version of a Bogan, ticking all the right stereotypes, Northern accent, a big family, tax cheating and a football maniac. The only thing missing in his life is his little brother Sebastian, whom he hasn’t seen in 28 years. When they reunite in unfortunate circumstances – involving a wheel chair bound, AIDS ridden war victim being shot – it sends both brothers on a mission to save the world.
Mark Strong plays Sebastian, and it’s funny to see him in a less-serious role, normally portraying the villain or a sinister character in his other films. In Grimsby, Strong must clear his name and fight for redemption alongside his bumbling, drunken brother… with a heart of gold. It sends them across the world and has more than enough exciting sequences to keep you interested, alongside the gags.
The storyline may be a cut-n-paste cliché, but the jokes are quite often surprisingly hilarious and clever. Cohen is brilliant in his roles and Grimsby holds par to this, in what is probably his most ‘cinematic’ film, less hidden camera, more action and narrative, which definitely works in this movies favor.
That being said, it’s not going to smash any box office records or sweep awards season. But, it’s a fun romp that barely lasts an hour and a half, and will either pleasantly surprise you, or at least shock you. Highly recommended for a cinema with lots of people… laughter is contagious after all.
