Much as Dudley Moore's original '80's comedy Arthur depended on whether you think the lead actor is actually funny, the remake leans on star Russell Brand in much the same way. Now I like Brand. His cheeky charm, verbose wit and rock star psychological baggage (he's an ex-drug/alcohol/sex addict) give him an unspoken backstory that adds layers to any character he plays.
It's a shame then that this tame remake fails to fully embrace the R rated depravity the casting of Brand can offer. The script is weak although everybody's trying their best, especially a game Jennifer Garner and a terrifyingly gruff Nick Nolte. Disappointingly Helen Mirren, as Arthur's nanny doesn't quite handle the comic timing as ably as she did in last years RED, although she comes into her own when the inevitable sentimental drama comes into play. Finally, love interest Greta Gerwig is an appealing, but quirky, leading lady in the Zooey Deschenal mold and I look forward to seeing her in other stuff.
Fun and mildly diverting fluff your enjoyment of which is dependant on the man child known as Russell Brand. You decide.
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