Stuart: A Life Backwards

Tom Hardy’s performance should be studied. Then hugged. You know you’re in for an emotional journey when a Badly Drawn Boy song kicks off a film, and it really hits you in the feels when another one plays during the end credits. I laughed, I cried, and then I cried some more. This has quickly become one of my favourite films. This is a beautiful mix of heartbreak and humanity. What struck me the most wasn’t just the rawness of Stuart’s experiences, but how the film gives him such respectful treatment. The story unfolds in reverse, which is really clever; it allows us to peel back the layers of a man who has endured so much yet still possesses his humour and spirit. And then there’s Tom Hardy 🩷 Honestly, I can’t wrap my head around how anyone can overlook him as one of the top actors of our time. His depth is incredible. Watching him in this role is a rollercoaster of feelings. He’s unpredictable, captivating, heart-wrenching, and often hilarious—all at once. At times, I completely forgot I was watching an actor. His movements and speech feel so genuine and lived-in. I appreciate him in everything he does, whether it’s this film, a gritty crime drama, or even reading bedtime stories on CBeebies🥹 Benedict Cumberbatch is brilliant too—quiet, gentle, and warm—but it’s the friendship between Stuart and Alexander that truly carries this film. It’s tender and full of respect, even in its messiness. You can feel how much they cared for each other. This one broke my heart and gave it a cuddle at the same time. I’ll be thinking about it for a long while.