Green Book Starring Viggo Mortensen, Mahershala Ali & Linda Cardellini, Directed by Peter Farrelly

Set in America in 1962, Green Book tells the heart-warming true story of Tony Lip (Mortensen), a working-class Italian-American bouncer who takes on a job as a chauffeur for Dr. Don Shirley (Ali), a world-class Black pianist. The mismatched pair embark on a two-month tour of concert venues in the racially charged deep south and discover they’re on the road to a meaningful and unique friendship.

I know director Spike Lee was dismissive about this reversible ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ biopic but I feel he’s being way too picky. This was a lovely story, made all the more impressive by the fact it’s based closely on a true story. It may well be all Spike is saying, but for me, that doesn’t take away from my enjoyment of this lovely ride. Is it best picture material? Maybe, but I feel there were better films. However deserved of its 4 stars it is, so…

Verdict: An enjoyable and moving film of the blossoming of a agains-all-odds bromance. ****

This film will be shown at The Harbour Club in Portscatho on Monday 24th June