Customer Reviews

Restless Natives

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I saw this film when it first came out and was delighted to see it available on DVD. It's a sweet film suitable for the whole family (although some might have a tricky time following the Scottish accents) with some very funny moments. There are one or two holes in the plot but overall it's a charming film. And you definitely don't want to miss that gorgeous Scottish countryside.

I bought this movie because of a reference to Big Country doing the music for it. I wasn't really sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised. It's not quite what I would call "laugh out loud" funny but there are quite a few great moments. Once I started watching I couldn't wait to see what came next. Excellent acting, great music, unique and entertaining plot (although the ending was fairly predictable). All in all, well worth the money.

I can't believe this is finally available on DVD! I have been waiting a very long time for this.

What initially drew me to this film was the fact that Big Country wrote and performed the soundtrack. But I am so glad I watched it, as it is an absolute gem. It is the tale of 2 friends in Scotland who decide to earn a little extra money by holding up tour buses and robbing the rich tourists of their cash and jewellery. Disguising themselves by wearing wolfman and clown masks, they lead the police on a merry chase through some truly stunning parts of Scotland. They even become tourist attractions themselves, with people clamouring to be on the buses that are most likely to be held up. Highly recommended if only for the breathtaking scenery and the wonderful soundtrack.

If told you how long I've been looking for this film...finding a VHS copy some years ago was such a coup for me - but finding the DVD - what a joy!
There are so mant hilarious & touching moments in this flick but it is SO much more than the sum of its parts.
It's funny - another reviewer mentioned Big Country (the band does the soundtrack of the film) and I, too heard the music before seeing the film.
I cannae (*grins*) find the words - it's a magical movie, it really is.
Try it, you'll love it!

This takes me back: Tight jeans, the old St Andrews Bus Station, police driving light blue Mark I Ford escorts, Princes Street open to vehicles other than buses and taxis...

Ok so I'm describing the incidentals but that's what keeps me interested in this movie. Mullaney and Friell give stellar performances as two young lads looking for money and adventure. Terri Lally provides a good supporting role as the love interest and Big Country twang their guitars from Edinburgh to Inverness. Top fun!

I bought this for my husband who is a Big Country fanatic, and has been waiting for this product for several years. He thoroughly enjoyed the dvd and couldn't wait to tell me of it.

A gently wry comedy for those who enjoyed great 'human condition' films like Gregory's Girl or Local Hero. The dialogue does occasionally stiffen up a bit under it's occasionally strained attempts to be funny, but there is plenty of pace and genuinely humorous moments to keep things trundling along.
As is so often the case with good comedies, we find ourselves actually caring about the fate of the two luckless central figures, and their modern brand of Robin Hood-style of generosity is surely as poignant for todays avaricious society as it was when Thatcher's government ruled with an iron Lochgelly from faraway Westminster (and yes, the political context IS relevant!).
Camera direction and clipping are of a decent standard, quite typical for the time and genre and never intrusive. The actors are familiar faces rather than major stars, including the Obligatory Yank, but this does not detract fromk the generally high standard of acting. The film is actually shot in Scotland (instead of the usual Ireland!), and dramatic scenery around Glencoe and other areas is employed to advantage. Add to this a soundtrack by Scottish masterband Big Country, and you have a surefire film experience that tolerates repeated viewing. Don't hesitate, press the order button...

I saw this film at the Seattle International Film Festival back in , I don't know, 1986. I had to see it twice because of the accents (did he say "clown" or did he say "clone"?). I later made a tape of it when it was shown on cable and I was elated to find it out on DVD.

The movie is still a visual two thumbs up and the soundtrack (by Big Country) still kicks [...]. But if you are looking for a laugh so hard that your sides hurt kinda movie, this isn't it. As for the plot, it works. If I'm recalling correctly, Scotland did have a high unemployment rate during the early 80's so the premise of holding up tour buses isn't too far fetched.