Talented English actors team up in this drama from director Fred Schepisi based upon Graham Swift's award winning novel. The central plot for Last Orders involves a group of four friends (Michael Caine, Tom Courtenay, David Hemmings and Bob Hoskins) who have been friends for their whole lives. As they got older the friends would spend their lives together at local pubs drinking their lives away while making pleasant conversation with each other. Their lives are suddenly turned upside down when one of the core friends dies in Jack Dodds (Michael Caine). The remaining friends are then entrusted to spread about the ashes of their deceased friend in the sea. As they head out to do this they reminiscence about their past.
Obviously, the acting is quite good in this novel to film adaptation. From Michael Caine to Bob Hoskins the four frontline actors perform suitably in their roles. The supporting cast is also filled with some great acting done by the likes of Helen Mirren and Ray Winstone. Some great editing by Kate Williams also helps the film. With such a sprawling story that spans over forty years an unskilled editor could have bungled the film easily. In addition, direction is done ably by Mr. Schepisi. His only problem is that he sorely underused Tom Cortenay who is really a great actor.
Overall, Last Orders is an enjoyable film filled with some truly great actors and sharp directing.
Rating: 84
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