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I purposefully didn't read other reviews, as I wanted my opinion of this film to be my own. Did I enjoy it, possibly not. It wasn't entertaining or entertainment. What it was à dark, very dark and deeply disturbing reflection of our dysfunctional society. A society where the most vulnerable in society are marginalised and don't get the help or support they need. This is a film about mental health and seeing it on Mental Health Awareness day provided a more powerful message than all the items on the news, in the press and on social media. Joaquin Phoenix in the title role was beyond description in the way he bought this character to life. Chilling, frightening and yet at the same time conveying the vulnerability of a man lost in his own world, where there is no one to support him and no one who will listen to him and understand him. Don't expect to come out of this film feeling good about yourself, but don't be surprised if you find yourself asking questions about the world we live in.

This film has everything. Excellently acted by the two leads to the point where you have to remind yourself it isn't actually Laurel & Hardy. The humour and spot on timing in the recreated sketches, but most of all the excellent human story of these two legends of the screen in the latter part of their career. Well drawn characterisations and poignant story telling. A film not to be missed. And as a footnote as a regular cinema goer, the first time I have been to what wasn't far off a full house for a midweek afternoon showing of a film in my local multi plex. Great to see a full house laughing and it has to be said crying.

You look at the cast and expect an out and out comedy. Instead what you get is a surprisingly well acted and poignant film that tells the story of a searchlight battery in world war two.