Search: Starring James Purefoy

The film breaks the rule that says Winston saved us, he cannot be criticised

Why something so English, which includes actors of David Hayman’s quality, despite the Scottish accent, appears rudderless is difficult to justify.

In the literal act of performance there is room to talk about self as performance, and that is where High-Rise is strongest.

For those who've always found Robin Hood yarns a trifle lightweight, this rufty-tufty beer-swilling, limb-lopping examination of King John attempting to quash a rebellion after being forced to sign the Magna Carta is worth a look.

What matters more is whether this mixture of stunt riding spectacle and tongue-in-cheek works. Surprisingly, it does. Almost.

The film has two defects. It isn't funny and Hugh Laurie is not Hugh Grant.

The performances are strong and the script by Ted Whitehead boned and lean.

It is to writer/director Paul Anderson's credit that he retains the tension throughout.

Solomon Kane has a respect for its source material and a willingness to balance its money shots with proper story-telling that transcend its genre limitations.

The film looks magnificent and the performances, particularly from Witherspoon and Atkins, are exemplary.

For once in her life Bonham Carter doesn't act everyone off the screen. In fact, she's awful.

If this is the new morality, flaunting self above the feelings of others, it makes for sloth and ugliness.