Lucky Break (2001)
Review by HTQ4
Film:
DVD:

Features:

• Theatrical Trailer
  

Jimmy (Nesbitt) and Cliff (Spall) are small time crooks who get a bit of bad info on a bigger job. They then get caught while trying to knock off their first bank and wind up in prison together. This prison is run by Graham Mortimer (Plummer), a lover of musical theatre. Cliff has an idea for escape, but it involves getting inside the old chapel of the prison, which is all but impossible. Finally, they are given their opportunity when Mortimer wants the inmates to produce a musical that he has written. During the rehearsal process, Jimmy falls in love with Annabel (Williams), a social worker at the prison who gets cast as his leading lady.

This is very smart little romantic comedy. The writing is clever and the actors play it off nicely. Nesbitt is perfect as the charming hero of the story and the relationship that he and Williams created between their two characters was very believable. The supporting cast, especially with Spall on board, is just as funny. The only negative thing I can think of to say about this movie is that it is a bit predictable. However, it works because it keeps the audience occupied and thus gives them no chance to get bored with its predictability.

The DVD is a bit of a disappointment. There are no special features of any kind other than some theatrical trailers. This is surprising to me since the director is no unknown: he also directed The Full Monty. I would have expected at the very least a director's commentary. But still, a cast commentary with the likes of Spall and Plummer on board I'm sure would be quite amusing. Even a featurette, something. But maybe next time.

So, guys, when you're at the rental store and you need a cute little movie to enjoy with your significant other, consider this a solid choice.