Tamara's Review:

For all that Russell likes to refer to this film as his family vacation in Provence, he does his usual careful, excellent work. Watch his eyes, no, his whole body, as Max struggles to redefine his priorities. There is depth and dimension not strictly demanded by the role or the film, but which makes both so much more gratifying for the viewer.

Speaking of, the love scene may be brief, but there is a great deal of gorgeous man on display in AGY and Ridley knows just how to shoot him.

The pace was exceptionally well done and I love the music score. I could feel myself speeding along with tightly-wound Max the banker, in his car and in his other machinations, and then gradually wind down and relax along with the evolution of Max the vintner.

I read the book, all of the interviews, and watched all the trailers prior to the screening. I've seen all of Russell's films, repeatedly. And I know how quick he can be - verbally and on his feet - in reality. The sheer physicality of the comedy of AGY managed to surprise me anyway - which was a treat.

Reviewers who complain that Russell is not subtle or graceful, as they imagine other famous adult comedic actors might have been in the role, miss the point completely. Jimmy Braddock was a subtle, grace-filled role. Max Skinner, however, is ballsy, ruthless and aggressive. He is also witty, and perhaps prone to laugh loudest at his own jokes. The pool scene made me chuckle but the real comedic winner was the tennis match. After the first viewing, it is my favorite scene. Russell's performance here tells me he is never going to hold back, not even in his "family vacation" films.

The supporting cast are all excellent and I really could not get enough of Tom Hollander or Archie Panjabi.