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RocknRolla Gets Early Praise - Guy Ritchie Confirms Sequels
by Kevin Powers
August 19, 2008
Source: The Sun
Guy Ritchie's RocknRolla's domestic future may be uncertain, but we're hearing from across the pond today that the forthcoming film - arguably a true return to the kinetic complexity of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch - is "brilliant" and "absolute class." Bear in mind, we're hearing this from the oft-suspect U.K. publication The Sun (warning: source story contains a small spoiler), but I have no doubt in my mind that the chaps are correct this time around. The praise is some of the first to hit the mainstream, but it's not necessarily surprising. What is an eye-opener is that Ritchie has revealed that he's "written a second and sketched out a third" film already! We've know the film's trilogy direction for some time, but it's great to hear work is actually being put against those early claims.
I'm going to revel in the promise here for a second and not recall Warner Bros. chief Alan Horn recently describing the film in a financially pejorative way as being "very English" and therefore not broadly commercial stateside. Who doesn't want to see this film? While Revolver was definitely dodgy, Lock, Stock and Snatch each hold a 71% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and the latter film made more than $30 million domestically. This certainly isn't Dark Knight territory, but for Ritchie, who brings such a unique sensibility to albeit modestly produced double-crossing capers, that is marked success by most accounts. And with Gerard Butler, Thandie Newton, and Tom Wilkinson of Michael Clayton fame leading the production, is there any chance of RocknRolla not scoring with audiences?
Perhaps this first salvo might help to wake domestic studios to snatch up RocknRolla and commit to a timeline and marketing plan. The film hits theaters in the UK come September 5th, but it looks like US audiences will have to wait quite some time, although Warner Brothers has tentatively set a limited release throughout October with a wide release hitting on October 31st. I really hope another studio gives this film a chance in the US and bolsters Ritchie's plan to follow it with two more films. The guy is immensely talented and if he truly brings anything on the level of Lock, Stock or Snatch again (which it sounds like he has), I'll be totally blown away. Are you looking forward to RocknRolla?
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14 Comments
1
I've said it before, and I'm sticking with my point of view... Guy Ritchie is a one trick pony. This movie looks exactly like his last good films, and that's not a good thing. The guy can't work outside a very small little box, and when he tries he makes flops. The Sun is a rag.
Kent on Aug 19, 2008
2
Guy Ritchie reminds be of Alex Billington. Used to be good, sucks lately but he's kinda coming back.
WaterFunk on Aug 19, 2008
3
hell yes.
scar on Aug 19, 2008
4
Yeah I was really looking forward to seeing this. From the trailers and the UK TV spot it looks really good. Who can argue with the cast as well. They have a great ensemble. I will never understand the powers that be that think they know what the people want to see.
Just Me on Aug 19, 2008
5
this movie looks awesome
Allen Johansen on Aug 19, 2008
6
If He is a one trick pony, well saddle me up baby i want a ride.
Buttons on Aug 19, 2008
7
Oh yeah! I'm with 'Buttons'! I hope there's one thing you do Kent that is half as good as the one thing Guy Ritchie does exceedingly well! And while I too, do not hold The Sun in the highest regard, I can not WAIT for this movie!!
weetiger3 on Aug 19, 2008
8
Yes, yes, yes.
Gillian Fey on Aug 19, 2008
10
I love Guy Ritchie. I liked Revolver (at least the weird edit I saw where there was half an hour extended and no montage of doctors.)
DCompose on Aug 19, 2008
11
yes i am loved Snatched and looking forward to RocknRolla
Curtis on Aug 19, 2008
12
Looks good but I don't see this as a domestic hit. I am sure the UK box office will warrant it a sequel where his films do much better.
Ryan on Aug 20, 2008
13
Love me some Guy Ritchie. Can't wait. Not too impressed with the trailer to be honest, but if he sticks with his formula, should be great. George Lucas was a one trick pony - he swayed from his formula. 😉
bozoconnors on Aug 20, 2008
14
I agree with 'Just Me' (Aug 19). I have a good feeling for RocknRolla, its cast and crew and faith in Mr Ritchie.
Twinky on Aug 22, 2008
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