The Hot Potato

An interesting idea played straight in 'City in Fear' (1959) and with tongue in cheek in 'Kiss Me Deadly' (1955), but here with a score that occasionally parodies John Barry's for 'The Ipcress File' (from which it also borrows the black CIA spook with a hat and a pipe) to make sure we know it's being played for laughs; of which there are very few, alas. The very last shot, however (borrowed from 'Kiss Me Deadly'), is worth sitting through the end credits for.

This film reminds me very much of The Italian Job as a traditional British comedy caper. The actors are very well cast and play their various characters extremely convincingly. Not the usual role for Ray Winstone but nevertheless a winning performance as Kenny. Jack Huston played a very convincing but not very worldly Danny and David Harewood was brilliant as the FBi agent who seemed to be able to appear through walls.Great twist to the end of the film

The European locations were very colourful and gave a greater depth to the movie. I particularly liked the old cars used and the car chase was wicked. All in all a great film for the family, no bad language no excessive violence, just a real good feel factor film. Buy it rent it enjoy!

Gorgeously-shot geezer-fest with a lovely colour palette and a soft heart. It tells a simple, quite satisfying story and stars some top British actors - Winstone, Meaney etc. The film is enjoyable and warm- hearted, despite being a bit predictable in its plot. The violence is cartoonish and often funny, and the level of threat is minimal. Self-parodying at times, the film also recalls the Carry On films and sixties classics like Alfie and The Ipcress File (especially in the music - though The Ipcess File is much darker, obviously). The set design is always beautiful, with lots of period detail. There are some nice European locations too. Charming.

The trailer for this came up as a YouTube recommendation, have to say I'd never even heard of it, but watched the trailer and was intrigued, so purchased the blu ray.

Well, from start to finish, this was an absolute delight, great storyline, fantastic cast, everyone played their part superbly, great cinematography, well recorded sound wise, just brilliant entertainment.

There were twists aplenty, and there wasn't a dull moment throughout its running time.

How is it we can make great films like this, but they don't seem to catch the publics attention or imagination? I just don't get it, like I say I'd never heard of it, so perhaps it wasn't particularly well publicised?

I note some reviewers say they didn't like the music, I completely disagree apart from the end song which mentioned 1972! Whats that all about? It was great to hear The Carnaby's 'Jump and Dance', in there.

Cannot recommend this highly enough. Watch it!

This film had so so much potential, but the bloody music, especially the starting credit music really dampened everything.

If the soundtrack was more upbeat then yes, this film could of been right up there with LSTSB.

Ray did a grand job, and is a lucky sod too having of had the pleasure of kissing the lovely, Louise I may add.

It was also great being a time warp film and seeing some great old classic cars.

Don't get me wrong, this film has it's flaws, but the story holds up, and keeps you interested. No switching off half way through with this flick.

Overall, good entertainment with a few beers. Buy, rent, enjoy!