Still Crazy Reviews

• Man, is this a good movie

  
  By AKZ4ZZG7JGPF2 on 1999-10-14
  I rented this film and, as is my wont, I watched it while reading a newspaper or a magazine--really did it a disservice. I had the vague feeling I had missed something, so I bought the DVD, and I've watched the film now 3 or 4 times. It gets better upon repeat viewings. If you watch it, REALLY watch it. There are so many throwaway lines (e.g., "Little Feat. One point") that you just won't catch if you're not paying attention.

  The music is just great--very believable rock written by some people from bands of the era (Foreigner, ELO, Squeeze). The actors are perfectly cast. I especially loved Bill Nighy in the role of lead singer Ray--a fragile, aging rocker who makes your heart melt with embarrassment most of the time he's on screen. If you love the old warhorse 70s bands, you'll love this film.
  
  

• Surprisingly good; dominated by Bill Nighy

  
  By A2QHM5HBSIXRL4 on 2003-11-07
  "Big Name" stars Stephen Rea (as keyboard player 'Tony Costello') and Billy Connolly (as prototypical rock band roadie 'Hughie' - no last name known or required) are front-loaded into the credits of this 1999 release detailing the fanciful reunion of splintered 1960s British rock group 'Strange Fruit.'

  No matter. The film is lorded over by supposed lesser-light Bill Nighy, portraying the David Lee Roth-like, completely self-absorbed lead singer 'Ray Simms.' Try taking your eyes off Nighy when he's on the screen...especially during his spleen-venting histrionics on-stage. This is Grade A stuff.

  And, for once, US marketers got it right: the cover box features Rea and fellow band members pushed far to the back, with a preening Nighy front and center in classic rock superstar regalia and pout. That's exactly the way the movie feels.

  We rented 'Still Crazy' as a 'second movie' throw-in & wound up being totally enchanted by it. Frankly, I can't even remember the other film, ostensibly our 'big viewing' for the weekend. I'll bet 'Still Crazy' - and especially Nighy - has that effect on you, too. It's definitely worth checking out.
  
  

• My favorite video of 1999

  
  By AMOR6I3LJWYG9 on 2000-01-13
  Favorite movie of 1999 - Sixth Sense. Favorite video rental of 1999 - Still Crazy.

  This movie is a pure joy. This is not a "mockumentary" like Spinal Tap (one of my all-time favorites), but rather a fairly straightforward comedy about a 60s/70s British rock band trying to make a comeback. The "Ray" character is sympathetic and hilarious at the same time...a wonderful character.

  The performances are outstanding, the comedy sometimes subtle, sometimes broad, and the music is awesome (I own the soundtrack and would highly recommend it to anyone, even people who haven't seen the movie).

  My wife and I watched the movie 3 times in one month...that's how much we enjoyed it.

  So, when's Strange Fruit coming to town!
  
  

• Floydian Slip

  
  By A2FEJIORC1MBG3 on 2001-04-19
  Q: What do you call a musician without a girlfriend? A: Homeless! If that old chestnut still makes you chortle, then you will "get" this movie. Painting an absolutely life-like portrait of an "almost great" 70's British band reforming for a 90's reunion tour, "Still Crazy" does "Spinal Tap" one better (I guess then you could say this film goes to "eleven", actually). The important dinstinction to make with "Still Crazy" is that, unlike other rock 'n' roll satires, it doesn't "mock" its characters, rather it treats them with the kind of respect that can only come from someone who truly loves and understands the music. Great performances all around, with the oft-mentioned Bill Nighy a standout in a hilarious yet poignant performance as the insecure lead singer. Devoted prog-rock fans will revel in many clever "inside" references, and are sure to recognize that the character of the "lost" leader/guitarist is obviously a tribute to Syd Barrett. Keep in mind, however, that you don't have to be a rabid rock fan to enjoy this film; its core issues dealing with mid-life crisis and the importance of following your bliss are universal themes. An exceptional original soundtrack (the kind that SHOULD, but of course NEVER gets nominated for an Academy Award!) puts the icing on the cake.
  
  

• Rock on.

  
  By A3H3Y28IPED5GU on 2004-11-23
  What a fantastic film. Brian Gibson directed this homage to 70s rock and roll that took me throught the whole range of emotions and left me with that happy satisfied feeling I adore.
  Smack full of great performances, good music, and a herd of sheep, Still Crazy entertains as well as reminds us all just how fun rock and roll can be.
  Its about music, bands, forgiveness, and friends.
  Its about hanging on for dear life and letting go.
  Its fresh, its funny, and it'll warm your heart.
  
  Featuring the music of Mick Jones (Foreigner) and Chris Difford (Squeeze), the film chronicles the reunion tour of near-miss British rock band Strange Fruit and all that comes with it. Tiny clubs, bad hair days, crazy fans, love affairs, and the music that holds them all together.
  
  If you liked Almost Famous or ever had a heart for bands, you will love this movie.
  
  
• Still crazy
  By AYOIFRGV0LZCP on 1999-11-29
  I just LOVED this movie. It was so real. Every little nuance of the guys was just perfect. I used to watch a band like this in my teens called the Newz/s in New Zealand. And I could almost imagine that someone had tracked them down and used each and every one of them for the characters. I laughed til I cried, it's an absolute scream. It's very well put together, very funny, picks up the times that were, when these bands were really big. Each member of the band is a perfect set of what is was like. The surly serious bass player (but secretly pretty good and of course, every female was in love with him). The blond and totally egotistic but slightly pathetic lead singer. The curly haired Tony who is the 'sensible but cuddly' one of the band. And every character seems to be perfectly thought out. Even down to the lead singers swedish/foriegn wife. And Bryan the genius of the group, but very sensitive. They even got the names right - there was always a Bryan! And a Tony! Anyway, it's a gorgeous film, full of clever lines and marvellous satirical British humour and it's so real and earthy. It's one of my favorites. Talk about take me back.
  
  
• My favorite film of all time!
  By A1N6NACO0GOZ8L on 1999-11-16
  I had a feeling I might like this film & waited anxiously for it to arrive at my local movie theatre, which it didn't, and later, video store, which alas it didn't. Feeling frustrated, on a whim I ordered the DVD. When it arrived, I had to run out and buy a DVD player. Then hoping it would be worth all the fuss, I finally watched "Still Crazy". What a glorious surprise. I LOVE this film! I LOVE all the people in it. I LOVE every word of the script, every subtle nuance, each individual shot. I don't know what's gotten into me, but I've been watching "Still Crazy" for about 6 weeks straight now and it keeps getting better and better! (And I've never done this before.) The only disappointment is the soundtrack which didn't use the same music as the film. But gosh, am I glad to read that there are other viewers like me who have been profoundly touched and inspired by this magnificent film!
  
  
• Ten Stars
  By A11PTCZ2FM2547 on 2002-06-12
  I can't remember the last time I was so entertained by a movie that I watched it three times within 24 hours. STILL CRAZY took me from my somber, somewhat starchy middle-age existence and transported me back to my college years in the Seventies, when I was in a ragtag part-time band. Make no mistake about it: this movie nails the chaotic, outlandish, self-absorbed, overbearing and irresistibly dysfunctional behavior of rock musicians. The antics of the characters--even in middle age as they attempt to revive their careers--brought back a plethora of memories. I, too, can recall gigs that had gone awry; band members shouting chords at one another during a song; the frequent "artistic" disagreements; impromptu jam sessions in barns, garages, empty high school band rooms; and the thrill of connecting with an audience (usually a drunk audience).

  Buy this movie...rent this movie...see this movie. It's more than just a comedy; there is a very real human component that transcends even the tumultuous world of the music industry. You'll laugh, you'll brush away an occasional tear, and you'll be thoroughly entertained.

  The flame still burns. God bless rock 'n roll!
  
  

• still rockin'
  By A9EO4GQ89XA4D on 2006-12-02
  While I tell twenty-somethings the '70's are best forgotten, I can't help but indulge in re-watching this movie time and time again. It instills a melancholic longing for the utterly free-wheeling energy that decade embodied. I was in high school and college at that time. I knew guys just like the characters and those girls who lost love and lovers to drugs, alcohol, and, well...reality! The comedy is poignant and a little heart-breaking. While a sequel is probably out of the question, you may sometimes wonder what the boys and Karen would be up to. Okay, it's a movie. Well, wouldn't you like an update? PS Buy the soundtrack, if you can find it. The songs, along with the movie's plot will get stuck in your nostalgic head! Anytime me and the "old man" need a laugh we fire this one up. You'll get the joke if you're 50! Truly a classic!
  
  
• Touching and very funny, this is a wonderful overlooked movie
  By A8SQEYC4TT38X on 2007-01-22
  Mid-way through this movie, I so wished the band would make it.
  That was despite knowing that these were all actors whom I'd seen often in other great films; the acting combined with the excellent writing, and made me desperately hoping this group would achieve the greatness that had alluded them.
  Wonderfully done cast, brilliant writing, beautiful locations. Yes, there are cliches here, but you don't really notice them as "cliches"-everything seems to flow together so flawlessy, and ends up feeling entirely natural and unscripted. The music is very well done as well-I do admit being tempted to buy the soundtrack CD.
  Bill Nighy did stand out in this movie, for me: a character at once moronic, fragile, and egotistical-he ended up being totally enjoyable, and was for myself probably the most sympathetic character of the film.
  Couldn't recommend this movie enough!
  
  
• Still Crazy
  By A3HL873MO6UK28 on 2001-09-26
  Ever since I stumbled across this brilliantly
  written & casted British satire, I've been reminded
  of my love of 70's music & styles, and especially the
  fragile psyche of some of those band members, like the
  lamentable Ray, whose pre-concert rituals, and on stage
  spasms are perfect. Timothy Spall & Billy Connolly
  provide great comic relief ("I'm Posh Fruit") from the
  sombre sections of this classic story. I loved it from
  start to finish, and was so taken by it that I'm ordering
  the soundtrack as a keepsake. I'm also obsessed with
  "The Flame Still Burns", a classic ballad which I have
  been playing to death on my VCR. It's a touching song, and
  adds to the moving and triumphant ending. Please get this
  cast together one more time for a sequel, as there's some definite magic happening here.
  
  
• Probably my favourite movie of all time
  By on 2002-02-25
  And what is more, my 15 year old son watches this on average once a week - and still hasn't tired of it.
  A beautifully crafted film, as English as they come - from the writing and directing to the subtle humour throughout. I would rate it alongside Cold Comfort Farm as exemplary English cinematic offering.
  The running joke on 'body-parts' in Band names is truly hilarious, although I expect you have to have been there to get all of the humour.
  It is impossible to fault the casting: Bill Nighy is so credible as Ray( we all know that character, eh? ) and Jimmy Nail does the sulky bass player as only he could do.
  A warm, soothing film to be watched over and over and over again.
  
  
• Nostalgia Has Never Been So Humourous!
  By A2KX4E33B9HWY7 on 2004-01-06
  This movie is tremendous for uplifting the Spirits.

  To begin, the soundtrack is unbelievable. Mick Jones (Foreigner) and Chris Difford (Squeeze) penned the songs, making Strange Fruit the best thing that ever hit today's music scene.

  Unfortunately, Strange Fruit are a strictly fictitional band of the late 1960's to early 1970's. To complicate matters, they were never a hit to begin with, due to drug use and inner fighting. One wonders what might have been, while listening to their fanatastic music play throughout.

  The Fruit draw inspiration from The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, David Bowie, and The Who.

  Each member of Fruit are quite memorable.

  Stephen Rea stars as down-and-dead-broke Tony Costello, who is asked by a festival promoter to reunite his band for a reunion tour, with hopes of reaping monetary benefits. Costello haply approaches ex-roadie Karen Knowles, played by Juliet Aubrey, to help him rekindle the flame of a dream long past.

  Juliet gathers up the bitter rhythm guitarist Jimmy Nail (Les Wickes), blundering Timothy Spall (David 'Beano' Baggot), and the extravagantly glamouresque lead singer Ray Simms (Bill Nighy). Tumbling in is another ex-roadie, the hippy-toker-jokester Hughie (Billy Connolly), who never let the flame burn out.

  As Juliet searches for the last member of their motley band, the elusive lead guitarist-songwriter Brian Lovell (played by the brooding Bruce Robinson), the reunited members squabble, just like old times, fighting over long lost memories.

  The band is then given the chance to do a small Dutch tour, to prepare for their promised festival. With young Hendrix-like Luke Shand (Hans Matheson) taking the place of Lovell, the crew hits the road. The sparks fly as their memories flame forward, threatening to burn their unfinished goals...

  Be prepared to laugh, sing, cheer, and cry, as these memorable characters etch themselves into your hearts...

  "And the flame still burns
  It's there in my soul for that unfinished goal
  And the flame still burns
  From a glimmer and then, it lights up again
  In my life"
  
  

• A surprisingly good film
  By A239TDP315C5B2 on 2004-02-24
  We rented this on impulse because it had Billy Connolly. The description reminded us of This Is Spinal Tap (which we love) and we greatly enjoyed the movie. Bill Nighy's clueless Ray was really wonderful and Stephen Rea as keyboardist Tony Costello was enjoyable to watch but the scene-stealer was Timothy Spall's Bilbo Baggot, the drummer. I just about fell off my seat when he finds out that his most vivid memory of touring is when the Fruit played the Hollywood Bowl--only to hear they never played there. And Billy Connolly is always a treat to watch, whatever he does.
  
  
• I loved this movie!
  By A3TNM3C9ENUCFW on 2004-11-06
  OK, so 5 stars is more than generous, but I was surprised how well this movie was received stateside when it was released. Being English myself, I thought a lot of the comedy and dialogue might not translate well to a mainstream audience, but you can't beat a good old fashioned story. Simple plot - A World famous rock band of the 70's split acrimoniously, and through a chance meeting with the son of a former promoter have the chance to get back together. A veritable A list of UK TV stars are here, and the team of Ian La Frenais & Dick Clement (Lovejoy, Auf Wiedersehn Pet) writing ensure quality. Billed as a riotous comedy is a bit wide of the mark, as there is a great deal of depth to the story, and the characters. At times hilarious, often bittersweet, but always realistic in it's portrayal of life, love, missed opportunities, and a wanting to relive ones past - this is really polished. As someone who can remember the 70's this struck a chord or two with me, and I would doubt it would have as good an impact on a younger audience, but don't let that put anyone off - a real "feel good" picture, cleverly interwoven with a quiet grace, and melencholy air would be the poets description. Plenty of repeat viewability, and Full screen & Wide screen on the same double sided disc make this a bargain. Great fun, Enjoy!
  
  
• A great rock movie, Missed when it first came out, but now found.
  By A38QEATH3NODFM on 2006-10-28
  I picked up a used copy of this movie on clearence, being huge into music and enjoying other rock movies such as Rock Star, and This is Spinal tap. I thought what the heck, this can't be to bad. Besides, it was nominated for a golden globe, how did I miss it. Well, that is a good question. This is a movie that just wasn't promoted, and for once the awards shows were correct in nominating it, it is a great flick. The story evolves around a fictional 70's rock group named Strange Fruit, a group that had ups and downs because of drugs and inner turmoil. Their lead singer Kieth died from overdose and his replacement never felt "in the group", which is true because the other member often brought up demons of the past. Brian, lead guitar and brother to Kieth, was also headed down the same path. The group was destroyed at a festival in the late seventies on the verge of superstardom when lighting struck the festival stage they were on. And with one zap, the band disbanded. Now fast forward 20 years, the guys have moved on, but one member, their keyboardist, has not. Dumb luck he meets a festival organizer, the son of the organizer of their last festival 20 years ago, who wants to have a reunion festival. This sparks our keyboardist mind to form a reunion. the movie takes off and follows the trials of this group being put back together and attempting to make a go of it. Although this time it's tougher, Brian the guitarman is not found, and from the looks of thing and evidence at hand, died years ago quietly. Even with the hireing of a young guitar wizard, will the band pull this reunion off...you just have to watch. An outstanding movie, Not just a knock off of Spinal tap, and A couple of years before the movie Rock Star (which seems similar to real Life Judas Priest history). This movie is outstanding for any music fan, a must see. And check out the soundtrack as well, some cool 70's era singers and musicians put together a spectacular piece of work that sounds new, but with that retro edge, really cool. At least rent it, but you'll end up buying this one.
  
  
• I'm crazy for "Still Crazy"
  By AGSM9T4E1MFLJ on 2006-11-10
  Love this film. The acting, the plot, the script and the music are all first rate. I don't know what took me so long to purchase this DVD. One of my top 5 R and R films. "Hard Days Night", "Help", "Woodstock", and "Spinal Top" make up this list.
  
  
• Wonderful surprise!
  By A2GWTV49IAJIYU on 2000-05-28
  It is odd, actually, that I should be making any statementsabout this movie, being that I missed the whole of the first part ofit! In deed, when I walked into the room, where my husband was watching it, I cried, "What the ( ) are you watching?" Well, as it turned out, a good movie! The thing I liked most about it, was the fact that the characters were so well rounded out emotionally and every personally type was explored: from the emotionally inhibited singer, to the drunken, over sexed drummer, to the mother hen "Let's all get along" organist, to the sneering, yet protective roadie. The elements of conflict that one would expect to see, when a group of talented personalities have been shut up in a bus for monthes on end, are there. The rivalry, the petty back biting, the opening of old wounds, the fear of age and rejection, the longing for group acceptance, the frustraction of trying to get everyone to cooperate, and the love/hate relationships that are the stock and trade of over blown egos, are played out between the band members as they try to get back a piece of their youthful glory. Actists, as a whole, are usually very insecure people, and you could see that clearly with Ray and then again with Brian. Brian being the most touching of all. The confrontation the band has with the press actually makes you want to slap someone. You truly want to protect these characters and reassure them that everything is going to work out fine. Then too, the music was wonderful and believably acted out by the cast. This was a lovely, lovely movie and I will be adding the DVD and the soundtrack to my collection! END
  
  
• Great Fun
  By on 1999-07-06
  This is a video for anyone who loves rock - regardless of your favorite era or genre. It's funny, inspiring and heartwarming and the music ain't too bad either. It seems the movie was barely noticed when it was released in the early spring of 99 here in the states. Having it on video is just as good, if not better. Watching at home you have the chance to rewind and listen again to the dialogue (laden with thick british and scottish accents). Make sure you watch the tape all the way through to the last of the credits.
  
  
• Extremely Original.
  By on 1999-09-13
  I didn't know what to expect of this when I rented it but after watching it three times, I went out and bought the soundtrack. Then I bought the damn movie. I can watch it over and over. There's comedy, drama, and some very touching moments. It's got it all. I just can't believe it didn't turn into a hit here in the states. The music fits the time and is exceptionally original. Much better than the "Full Monty" if you ask me.
  
  
• the best movie i have seen in years
  By A2GAHMGGTF8TH4 on 2000-09-06
  This is truely the best rock video ever made. Everything from the acting to the laughs to the music was great. ANYBODY WHO GIVES THIS MOVIE 3 OR LESS STARS SHOULD NOT BE TRUSTED.
  
  
• The Flame Still Burns for this bloomin' brilliant movie!
  By A30MCID10LZUVE on 2001-09-09
  What an amazing film!!! Wonderfully hilarious, with so much to offer! For anyone who has been on the road with a rock band, listened to a rock band, or indeed, lived, this is such an enjoyable film. The poignant moments are incredibly moving, though the movie is by no means suffocated with pointless sentimentality. And yes, the humorous parts are side-splitting. The story of the aged heavy metal band that try desperately to make it back to the top after splitting up 20 years before, is one that is a great basis for a brilliant film, and it doesn't disappoint for one minute. All the performances are amazing (particularly that of Bill 'I'm not fifty' Nighy as the well meaning but slightly dim lead singer, Ray. Be prepared for a marvellous evening in!
  
  
• Still Crazy
  By on 2003-12-09
  wow! much too short, quite inspiring, and altogether wonderful! don't miss it, and stick with it to the very end of the titles.
  
  
• A film I will always go back to and enjoy - musicians love it !
  By AAKGTWGAFT1LQ on 2005-10-29
  A lot of people know THIS IS SPINAL TAP and this film has a little of that film's influence in it , but seems to humanise the characters a bit more .
  
  I think this film rightly helped Bill Nighy , who plays the lead singer , become a better known actor .
  He shows a good range here and is believable - to me at least .
  Comedy is hard to do well and all the actors are strong in this film .
  
  There are also some good 'arena rock' type songs in it written especially for the film - the lyrics have to be heard to be believed .
  
  Get the beers and pizza ready before you settle down to watch this .
  
  I recommend this film as good entertainment based on reality .
  Reality for rock musicians , anyway !
  It's a good laugh and there's nothing wrong with that .
  
  
  
• Bittersweet Comedy
  By A1RVKISBB96Z0X on 2006-02-24
  The koodos for this movie make my review somewhat a moot point,but I can't help myself I love the cast Connolly and Nighy are worth the price.Still Crazy takes the best Spinal Tap and Velvet Goldmine moments and weaves them into a funny yet touching film about picking up the brass ring, dropping it, and trying to clean the mudd off.
  
  
  
  
  
• A Question of Stature
  By A1J1Q5F2TAMRIC on 2006-05-20
  My favorite rock'n roll movie.
  
  As movie's go, Still Crazy is above average, however, as a rock'n roll movie this movie sits miles above. It's a question of stature. Although I enjoy watching Spinal Tap (only with the voice over commentaries switched on), Still Crazy is both funny and convincing.
  
  When you are feeling "too old to rock'n roll, yet too young to die", simply insert this movie into the DVD player, sit back, relax and enjoy.
  
  "I, I want my thoughts to be heard
  The unspoken words of my wisdom
  Today, as the light starts to close
  Tomorrow who knows who will listen"
  
  Either the flame still burns or you die lonely and miserable.
  Well it's better than being a wanker!
  
  
  
  
  
• Melancholy rock and roll
  By A1OKVQ4GI9EWMD on 2006-08-22
  Still Crazy is a melancholy look at aging rock and roll stars as they try to recreate their youthful musical experience. In this, it is really a metaphor for all of us, as we reminisce about what we were and what we are, and "what might have been." Bill Nighy is once again excellent in his lead singer role. The music is surprisingly poignant and accessible. There are a lot of laughs here, but the underlying theme is quite serious. This is a DVD for your collection.
  
  
• Still Crazy for it!
  By A385PCE99EEYP2 on 2000-01-21
  This film is so fantastic--I saw it for the first time last year while I was living in England. I immediately bought the soundtrack and couldn't wait to see it again! My husband and I have rented it twice already, so I finally decided to buy it. I can't wait to ge my hands on my own copy--I will sit down immediately upon receiving it and watch it again and again. It is completely addictive, and if you don't find yourself falling in love with Strange Fruit, then you must be a sad soul, man! The original music was written in part by Chris Difford from Squeeze, so if you enjoy the lyrics of Difford-Tilbrook, that is just one more reason to see this amazing, funny, sweet film. LONG LIVE STRANGE FRUIT!
  
  
• Rock 'n' Drole
  By A2LYGWFS4UVKGC on 2000-06-29
  The simple tale of the archetypal British rock group, disbanded following mounting inner turmoil and a disastrous open air appearance in the 70s, now in need of cash and attempting to reform. All the appropriate ingredients and clichés .....drugs, artistic temperaments, egotistical tantrums, flares and fart jokes...are thrown in and combined with faultless casting and a superior soundtrack (courtesy of Chris "Squeeze" Difford and Mick "Foreigner" Jones), make for an enjoyable watch. "Strange Fruit" and their entourage prove an endearing bunch, but the film's shining light is Bill Nighy as the alcoholic, preening, pretentious, but ultimately insecure and unloved, lead singer. The film only fails to achieve greatness due to the fact that, as a comedy, it is at best amusing, rather than hilarious. Still, I've been to much worse gigs!
  
  
• For anyone that has just turned 50.
  By on 1999-07-18
  This film is for anyone that loves Rock & Roll, loves the British and is turning fifty. One of the best films of 1999.
  
  

• Still Crazy
• The Commitments
• Blow Dry
• The Girl in the Cafe
• The Lawless Heart