Softly done, this picture showcases the talents of both John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan to positive effect, particularly in the case of Coogan who at last has a (cinematic) vehicle worthy of his talents. The duo truly capture the slapstick delivery of the old stars, in particular in one scene where the director pays homage to them in a scene involving just the couple, a pretty desk attendant and a counter bell. It is done to perfection! A surprise emerging from the film, which one supposes to be an accurate portrayal of the men themselves, was just how soft a character Hardy was in apparent contrast to his screen persona. Unlike Laurel who was forever going head to head with Hal Roach over the terms of their contract, Hardy was an appeaser who would do anything for the simple life (of maintaining the gambling and women habit's he'd acquired over the years). Laurel in contrast worked tirelessly on their act, writing and practising in every spare moment that he was not actually filming (or arguing their terms). He was, and remained the driving force behind the success of the duo.
Never aiming above its mark, the film tells this poignant story without fanfare, but somehow perfectly capturing the essence of the somewhat dusty decline that all but the few, fated to enjoy the fickle gifts of lady fame must sooner or later come to face.
(Sorry about that last sentence - it simply came out like that; Ughh!
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