Categories: Film Reviews

Review: Limitless (2011)

[pullquote cite=”” type=”left, right”][amazon text=Amazon&template=carousel&chan=that film guy&asin=B0051NH5KY][/pullquote] There are science fiction films that take themselves very seriously and have in important point to make. Then there is Limitless. A barmy premise and frankly ludicrous plot is handled with fun and enjoyment by all involved. Nobody is too serious and the action rarely drags. It really is the perfect vehicle for a star like Bradley Cooper who is wish fulfilment for many fans in and of himself, but when gifted the keys to the sweet shop in something like this is incredibly charismatic and just a joy to watch.

Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper) is a struggling science fiction writer, whose life has been plagued by drug and alcohol abuse. A chance encounter with his ex-brother-in-law leads to him taking an untested drug called NZT, which opens up his entire brain and allows him to think clearly, giving him a four digit IQ. He finishes his book in days and moves onto playing the stock exchange. After a meteoric rise in social standing, he notices the drug has some unusual side-effects and his life starts to crash as quickly as it rose and his important merger deal with Carl Van Loon (Robert De Niro) is placed in jeopardy along with his life.

Bradley Cooper first made his name in Hollywood in The Wedding Crashers, from there he won a starring role in breakout comedy smash The Hangover. Limitless is his first big-budget solo lead role and he more than makes the most of it. He is interesting and engaging as layabout bum-turned super-genius in this perfect Saturday night fodder. The action is quick and unusual and the science fiction premise of a drug that allows you to focus completely and access memories on how to fight and make money on the stock-market is pure fantasy heaven.

There are holes in the plot and it drags in the middle portion, but it’s not afraid to not take itself too seriously, which leads to a thoroughly enjoyable, if silly film-going experience. Popcorn-fodder at it’s very best.

Thomas Patrick

That Film Guy

A new group of film reviewers in the finest traditions of ThatFilmGuy.

Share
Published by
That Film Guy

Recent Posts

Once Upon a Time In Holywood

Trailer Review Tarantino gets a lot of stick for his movies. He is accused of…

5 years ago

Beauty and the Beast

Trailer Review to follow

7 years ago

Ghost in the Shell (2017)

Trailer Review to follow

7 years ago

War for the Planet of the Apes

Trailer Review to follow

7 years ago

A Cure for Wellness (2017)

Trailer Review to follow

7 years ago